The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has extended its congratulations to Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda on his appointment as the fourth Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in just two years. In a statement released by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC expressed cautious optimism that Yilwatda’s emergence could herald a more inclusive and democratic direction for the ruling party.
According to the ADC, this leadership change presents the APC with “yet another opportunity” to embrace the fundamental principles of participatory democracy — a shift that the opposition party hopes will be reflected not only in rhetoric but in substance and political conduct.
“While we understand that leadership transitions are routine, we are hopeful that this particular appointment might trigger a shift in tone, temperament, and trajectory for a party that has too often equated governance with propaganda, and power with impunity,” the statement read.
The ADC emphasized the need for the APC to begin showing greater tolerance for dissent and constructive criticism, reiterating that, in a democracy, disagreement does not equal disloyalty. “We expect that under the stewardship of the new Chairman, the APC and the federal government it controls will start to show greater tolerance for opposition voices and alternative viewpoints,” the party said.
The ADC also criticized the circumstances of Professor Yilwatda’s appointment, particularly the venue of the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting that confirmed his leadership. The meeting was held at the State House — a government facility — rather than a party office. The ADC described this as a “dangerous blurring” of the lines between state and party, calling it an “aberration” and a sign of the APC’s continued disregard for democratic norms.
“This government has strayed far from the foundational norms of democratic accountability,” the ADC noted, urging Professor Yilwatda to redirect the party back toward respecting constitutional boundaries and institutional integrity.
Highlighting Professor Yilwatda’s past experience as a Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), the ADC acknowledged the significance of his understanding of electoral ethics, neutrality, and public trust. However, the party cautioned against using this background for partisan advantage.
“We sincerely hope he will draw on this experience to promote the sanctity of our electoral processes, rather than using insider knowledge to game the system in favour of his party,” the statement added.
In closing, the ADC offered well-wishes for the new chairman’s tenure, expressing hope that his leadership would be marked by integrity and democratic progress. “May his tenure be longer than those of his predecessors and his exit more honourable,” the statement concluded.
