By Aderogba George
Former African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Mr Dumebi Kachikwu, has urged party actors to respect the rule of law, warning that violations could deepen the ADC crisis and undermine Nigeria’s democratic stability.
Kachikwu, at a news conference in Abuja on Wednesday, said the “real ADC” was proceeding with preparations for its national convention in line with legal provisions and in consultation with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
He said a Federal High Court order in Abuja, which he said directed parties in the dispute to maintain the ‘status quo ante bellum pending determination of the case, must be respected by all stakeholders.
According to him, any action contrary to the court’s directive amounts to a disregard for the rule of law.
“Despite this order, the nation witnessed desperate politicians hold a convention in the name of the African Democratic Congress knowing same to have no locus before the law,” he said.
Kachikwu said some actors within the party were engaging in “political gangsterism”, adding that their actions could worsen political tensions in the country.
He also said some individuals involved in the dispute were not offering constructive policy alternatives but were focused on attacking the Federal Government.
The former ADC presidential candidate warned that Nigeria’s fragile security and economic situation required responsible political conduct, noting that prolonged insurgency and governance challenges had weakened national institutions.
He cautioned that continued internal party disputes and political provocations could further strain national stability.
Kachikwu insisted that the party would not be hijacked by any group, stressing that its internal processes remained guided by law and institutional procedures.
“The real ADC is preparing for her convention and is doing so within the ambits of the law,” he added.
He also urged President Bola Tinubu to intensify efforts toward uniting the country, saying Nigeria had yet to fully recover from the tensions of the last general election.
He said stronger leadership was needed to mobilise citizens around shared national priorities, warning that failure to do so could deepen divisions.
Kachikwu reaffirmed that the ADC remained committed to resolving its internal disputes through legal and democratic channels ahead of future elections, including the 2027 general elections.
On concerns over the party’s participation in future polls, he expressed confidence that the courts would resolve all disputes in due course.
“We are optimistic that the courts will address the issues before us. We will continue to litigate to ensure that our candidates are on the ballot,” he said.
He dismissed claims linking the party’s internal crisis to external political influence, including suggestions of backing from the Presidency, describing such narratives as unfounded.
On the debate over court involvement in internal party matters, he maintained that such disputes could not be treated as purely internal, warning that unchecked infiltration of political parties could undermine democratic processes.
He added that the party remained confident of resolving its leadership and structural disputes through legal and institutional channels in the coming weeks. (NAN)
Edited by Tosin Kolade
