By Wilson Adekumola
The African Democratic Congress on Monday inaugurated its new national secretariat in Abuja, an event that notable opposition figures, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi, both of whom the ADC has been courting for full membership, did not attend, according to The PUNCH.
It also emerged that the building now serving as the ADC’s headquarters previously housed Atiku Abubakar’s presidential campaign office during the last election, when he contested under the Peoples Democratic Party.
During the unveiling, the ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, dismissed speculation that the development signaled a shift in opposition political realignment.
“Atiku used to be the tenant of this building, which he used for his presidential campaign. But his tenancy has lapsed. The African Democratic Congress is now the tenant of this building. This is not an indication of anything. It has nothing to do with our movement. This is solely an ADC decision,” he said.
Abdullahi reiterated the party’s dedication to fairness and cohesion as its February congresses draw nearer.
“The ADC leadership, under the chairman, David Mark, has made it clear that the party will be fair to everyone concerned. At the root of what you call the crises in other parties is injustice and lack of fairness.
“We are glad that we have kept disagreements and conflicts within our party relatively low. So, it’s not going to be business as usual. We believe that as long as we continue to uphold the principles that brought us together in the coalition, even when problems arise, we can deal with them.
“For instance, the chairman promised all the legacy chairmen across the country that nobody would be sidelined. And you can see that we have kept our word because they are still there. So, if an issue comes up, we’ll deal with it,” he explained.
He also addressed questions regarding the positions of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and Peter Obi in the coalition.
“You are aware that former Governor Nasir El-Rufai and His Excellency Peter Obi were given until the end of the Anambra election to make a decision. Now that the election is done, we expect that everybody will come back together fully.
“At present, the status of any leadership positions has not changed from the original arrangement within the coalition and the ADC,” he added.
Addressing supporters at the event, ADC National Chairman Senator David Mark described the new headquarters as a physical embodiment of the coalition’s aspirations for Nigeria’s political future.
“It is a physical testament to our collective resolve to build a greater nation. This ADC coalition is a historic child of necessity, inspired by people’s desire for good governance, greater accountability, and a stronger democracy,” he said.
Mark noted that the facility would serve as a central hub for shaping the party’s strategic direction.
“From within these walls, we shall continue to champion policies that will uplift communities, strengthen institutions, and safeguard the democratic foundations upon which our republic stands,” he stated.
The ADC has continued to push for all members of the opposition coalition, formed in July to mount a united front against President Bola Tinubu in 2027—to formally resign from their current parties and register fully with the ADC, though some influential figures remain hesitant.
