Fresh developments suggest that President Bola Tinubu’s administration may be actively involved in the ongoing crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Many Nigerians are now pointing to deliberate efforts from high levels of government to weaken the opposition, raising fears of a political landscape leaning toward one-party dominance.
At the birthday celebration of Honourable Leke Abejide, Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, delivered a bold message that has captured nationwide attention. He told Abejide to “hold tight to the ADC, fight hard, scatter them, and never allow anyone to take the party away.” Gbajabiamila added that Abejide should ignore former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello’s advice to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), saying firmly, “Stay right there in the ADC, win your election, and keep pushing.”
Gbajabiamila encouraged Abejide to bring in Bala Gombe the self acclaimed ADC faction leader and promised full backing for his efforts. He described Abejide as a genuine fighter who built the ADC with his own money, sweat, and effort and emphasized that nobody has the right to take the party from him. He wished him success in ongoing court cases and praised his principled leadership, which has earned Abejide respect across the country.
These statements come amid a series of moves that many Nigerians see as high-level interference in the ADC. Social media support from President aide Bayo Adenuga for the Abejide-Gomba faction, the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) deregistration of previously recognized ADC leaders of David Mark following a Court of Appeal ruling that ordered parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum, and Gbajabiamila’s encouragement for Abejide to continue scattering opposition forces all point to a coordinated strategy. This sudden shift has sparked heavy criticism with many accusing INEC of acting in a way that deepens the party crisis instead of resolving it that Many Nigerians believe this is aimed at keeping rival parties divided and less able to challenge the ruling party ahead of the 2027 elections.
INEC chairman has faced direct accusations of partisanship which many warn could seriously undermine free and fair elections in the country. Many Nigerians say the commission’s handling of the ADC matter raises serious questions about its neutrality and independence especially as it appears to take actions that keep the opposition party divided and weakened.
