ADC Leader Declares Party as Home for Obidients

Mallam Salihu Moh. Lukman, a prominent leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has called for unity.

He urges supporters of various factions to rally under the ADC umbrella.

Together, they can effectively tackle Nigeria’s pressing challenges.

Lukman made these remarks during his appearance on Channels TV on Tuesday morning, as monitored by DDM in Abuja.

In his appeal, the former All Progressives Congress (APC) National Vice Chairman for the Northwest highlighted a crucial point.

He stated that a divided opposition would inadvertently grant victory to the ruling APC and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Thus, he emphasized the necessity of fostering unity among opposition groups.

Moreover, he reiterated that the ADC and its coalition warmly welcome supporters of Peter Obi’s “Obidient” movement and other political factions.

ADC as a Platform for Change

Lukman confidently assured everyone that the ADC is fully committed to inclusivity and transparency in its political processes.

Furthermore, he emphasized that any candidate winning the party’s presidential primaries will receive unwavering support from coalition members.

He also highlighted the essential importance of unity among all members.

He stated, “If Peter Obi becomes the ADC presidential candidate, we will support him to overcome past shortcomings.

Similarly, if Atiku Abubakar wins, we will back him and help him avoid repeating former President Buhari’s mistakes.”

Moreover, he added that the ADC’s approach prioritizes equity and fairness, ensuring all aspirants and members feel welcomed.

Additionally, Lukman noted that the coalition’s current discussions focus on broader issues rather than selecting a presidential candidate at this stage.

A Democratic Process for Candidate Selection

Lukman emphasized that ADC’s presidential candidate would be determined through a transparent and democratic primary process.

“Let me be very clear on this: there is no discussion about the question of the presidential candidate in the coalition at this moment.

Whoever becomes the candidate of the ADC must win the primary. This is the first test of whether those aspiring are democrats or not,” he said.

He urged aspirants to prioritize national interests over personal ambitions, stating that leaders must demonstrate a readiness to make sacrifices to address Nigeria’s pressing challenges.

“It is not simply about presenting candidates; it is about presenting leaders who can earn trust through humility and commitment to the collective goals of the party and the nation.”

Lessons from APC Leadership

Reflecting on his experience with the APC, Lukman criticized the arrogance exhibited by certain leaders.

He noted that these leaders often failed to hold themselves accountable to their party members.

Consequently, he warned against fostering political figures who behave like “emperors.”

Instead, he urged the need for a leadership model grounded in humility and accountability.

“We trusted our leaders in the APC, yet they transformed into emperors,” he stated emphatically. “Now, everywhere you hear ‘on your mandate, on your mandate.’ However, I refuse to stand on anyone’s mandate. We desire leaders who prioritize party members and actively seek clearance for their decisions.”

Building Consensus Amid Challenges

Lukman acknowledged that negotiations within the coalition have been challenging but expressed confidence in achieving a unified front.

He stressed the importance of resisting temptations to elevate leaders who exhibit arrogance or a “my way or nothing” mentality.

“This is the kind of negotiation going on within the coalition. It is difficult, but we are confident that in the end, we will succeed in presenting a common candidate.”

Moving Nigeria Forward

In his concluding remarks, Lukman highlighted the need for honest debates and transparent engagement within ADC to chart a path forward for Nigeria.

He reiterated that leadership trust must be earned through actions that reflect humility and accountability.

“As Nigerians, we must resist the temptation of setting up leaders who become arrogant.

This is about building a platform that prioritizes national progress over individual ambitions.”

The ADC leader’s call for unity and inclusivity underscores the party’s commitment to fostering a coalition capable of addressing Nigeria’s complex socio-political issues.

As opposition groups deliberate their next steps, Lukman’s appeal serves as a reminder of the importance of collaboration in achieving meaningful change.

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