The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has cautioned supporters of its presidential aspirants against promoting division and exceptionalism in their campaign rhetoric, stressing that such behaviour could harm the party’s unity and electoral prospects as it prepares for its June 2026 presidential primaries.
Party officials say a united front is essential for success in the 2027 general elections.
Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the National Publicity Secretary of ADC, made the warning during a live audio conversation on X in Abuja on Saturday, where he addressed concerns about increasingly polarized supporter behaviour ahead of the primaries.
Abdullahi said the party wants its members to focus on collective goals rather than elevating one aspirant above others, a stance that he believes will strengthen cohesion and broaden appeal.
Abdullahi emphasised that supporters should avoid claiming that their preferred aspirant must be the nominee or that anyone else is unacceptable, describing such attitudes as counterproductive to the party’s strategic objectives.
“Preaching division and exceptionality threatens ADC’s chances of winning,” he said, noting that such messages benefit rival parties, especially the All Progressives Congress (APC), by undermining opposition unity.
The ADC spokesperson noted that he has engaged with several prominent aspirants, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra Governor Peter Obi, former Minister Rotimi Amaechi, and former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, on the importance of strengthening unity and focus within the party ahead of the broader electoral contest.
These discussions, according to Abdullahi, are part of ongoing efforts to build a consolidated front that can appeal to voters across Nigeria’s diverse regions.
Abdullahi also addressed speculation about the possibility of the 2027 elections being held earlier than scheduled in 2026.
He said that while an earlier election could create challenges for the ADC in healing internal divisions post-primaries, it could also be advantageous because many Nigerians are reportedly dissatisfied with the current administration.
Regardless of timing, he emphasised that unity within the party remains critical.
Political analysts note that opposition parties in Nigeria often face internal pressures that can weaken their competitiveness against the ruling party.
The ADC’s warning indicates awareness within party leadership that disciplined messaging, collective strategy and broad supporter engagement are essential to avoid fragmentation and to present a credible national alternative in 2027.
For urban voters and political stakeholders, the ADC’s emphasis on unity and rejection of divisive supporter conduct highlights the party’s attempt to navigate internal differences strategically, minimise factionalism, and build momentum ahead of its primaries and the general elections.
Meta description: The ADC warns supporters of its presidential aspirants against preaching division and exceptionality ahead of its June primaries, urging unity to strengthen the party’s prospects for the 2027 general elections.
