Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has dismissed claims that the party’s move into its new national secretariat in Abuja signals a shift in opposition alliances.
Speaking during the official inauguration on Monday, November 17, Abdullahi explained that the building, previously used by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for his presidential campaign, now belongs entirely to the ADC and carries no political implications.
“Atiku was formerly the tenant of this building during his presidential campaign, but his lease has ended. The African Democratic Congress is now the official occupant. This move has no broader political meaning; it is purely an ADC decision,” he said.
Abdullahi emphasized that the party leadership, headed by Senator David Mark, remains focused on fairness and unity as the ADC prepares for its February congresses.
“The ADC leadership has committed to being fair to all members. Much of the unrest in other parties stems from perceived injustice and lack of equity,” he noted.
He also highlighted the party’s ability to maintain internal harmony, stressing that the principles which brought the coalition together would continue to guide its actions.
“For example, the chairman assured all legacy chairmen nationwide that no one would be sidelined, and we have upheld that promise. They remain active in the party. Any issues that arise will be addressed appropriately,” Abdullahi said.
Responding to questions regarding the involvement of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi within the coalition, Abdullahi stated that clarity is expected now that the Anambra election has concluded.
“Both former Governor Nasir El-Rufai and His Excellency Peter Obi were given until the end of the Anambra election to make their decisions. With the election concluded, we anticipate that everyone will fully re-engage.
“At this point, the status of leadership roles remains unchanged from the original coalition and ADC arrangements,” he added.
Atiku, Obi Absent as ADC Inaugurates New National Secretariat
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi were notably absent from the launch of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) new national secretariat, despite being courted for full membership within the coalition.
Gossip News Now reports that the new headquarters occupies the same building that previously served as Atiku’s PDP presidential campaign office.
Addressing party supporters at the unveiling, ADC National Chairman, Senator David Mark, described the secretariat as a symbolic affirmation of the coalition’s ambition to reshape Nigeria’s political landscape.
“This building stands as a testament to our shared commitment to nation-building. The ADC coalition emerged out of necessity, driven by the people’s call for good governance, accountability, and a stronger democracy,” he said.
Mark added that the facility will serve as the operational center for developing strategies, generating ideas, and mentoring the next generation of political leaders.
“Within these walls, we will continue to promote policies that strengthen institutions, improve communities, and uphold the democratic principles on which our republic is founded,” he stated.
Since the coalition’s formation in July, the ADC has repeatedly urged aligned political figures to resign from their current parties and formally join the coalition.
However, some key figures have resisted this directive.
The party maintains that full alignment is essential for the opposition to mount an effective challenge to President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.
