Speaking on Arise Prime Time, ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi said the party’s presidential primary process reflects a commitment to open competition rather than political imposition.
Addressing concerns over failed consensus talks among leading presidential aspirants, Abdullahi argued that the inability to force an agreement was evidence of democratic strength rather than weakness.
According to him, the party deliberately avoided dictating outcomes or forcing candidates to step down in favour of preferred contenders.
“We do not impose candidates in ADC and we do not direct people on what choices they must make,” Abdullahi stated while explaining the party’s approach to resolving internal disagreements.
He noted that discussions involving former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi and Muhammad Hayatu-Deen involved negotiations and debates rather than directives from party leadership.
According to him, many political parties in Nigeria traditionally rely on powerful figures who determine outcomes behind closed doors. ADC, he argued, chose a different route by allowing aspirants to openly contest and persuade one another.
Abdullahi explained that while another party chairman might have dictated a final decision, ADC opted for direct primaries after consensus efforts failed.
He maintained that the process demonstrated the party’s willingness to embrace internal contestation of ideas.
The ADC spokesperson said the party believes persuasion and negotiation remain more sustainable tools for political cohesion than imposing candidates, adding that such principles distinguish the party from its rivals ahead of the 2027 elections.
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