‘Obi or nothing’ not helpful, ADC warns supporters against divisive politics

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has asked supportersof the party’s presidential aspirants to desist from divisive politics. Top members of the opposition party, including formerVice-President Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, ex-governor of Anambra, havehinted at the possibility of contesting the presidency in the 2027 elections. Recently, supporters of declared ADC presidential hopefulshave expressed differing views on zoning, with many Obi backers calling for theticket to go to the south, while most Atiku supporters advocate an opencontest. However, during an interactive X Space on Saturday, BolajiAbdullahi, ADC national publicity secretary, asked the party supporters to backall presidential aspirants collectively.The former minister of sports and youth development alsoemphasised that unity is crucial for the party’s success. “Those supporting this divisiveness among supporters of anyof the aspirants should stop what they are doing because they are clearlyworking to the advantage of the APC and President Bola Tinubu,” he said. “Saying it is either this candidate or nothing is nothelpful because getting the ticket alone means nothing. “What is important is winning the election, and we cannotcarry this divisiveness and expect to win.” Abdullahi added that the party would strengthen cohesion andencourage its leaders to promote unity among aspirants. “We believe that all our aspirants are eminently qualified,and vilifying anybody or any region is not helpful and will only make thingsmore difficult,” he said. “We are going to commence the process of strengthening unityand having our leaders speak with one voice. “We are going to ignore people creating a sense ofexceptionality and focus on what we are doing because we want to win thiselection. “Those shouting ‘Obi or nothing’ are equally not helpinghim. They are preaching division, and they are not selling him. They are notproviding room for people from other places to support him. “They should stop making others take hard stances becauseeveryone needs to be on board for us to win this election.” On January 20, the former vice-president cautionedsupporters of opposition leaders against trading insults, warning that suchattacks only benefit the All Progressives Congress (APC). He said anyone who insults Obi or himself does not have theinterests of the coalition or Nigerians at heart. On January 6, Abubakar said no ADC presidential aspirantwould withdraw ahead of the 2027 polls, adding that all qualified aspirantswould “present themselves freely” when the party begins its selection process.

Read More