The National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress, Bolaji Abdullahi, has stated that the ADC party was formed out of “political necessity” as Nigeria approaches a decisive political moment. Appearing on Arise TV yesterday in an interview on the state of the opposition, he discussed the party’s internal cohesion, its position compared to other political groups, and the broader climate shaping the next election cycle.

During the conversation, Abdullahi addressed perceptions that the ADC is “polarized from within, and undermined from without,” a view often raised when the party is compared to larger opposition groups like the PDP. He was also questioned about supposed internal rivalries among “high profile leaders who are yoked down with the might of competition amongst themselves.”

In response, he explained that what some interpret as division is actually evidence of a broad coalition, one held together by shared purpose rather than personal ambition. He added that the party has faced attempts by individuals who hope to infiltrate its ranks and distort its mission for Nigerians, but these efforts have only strengthened the resolve of leaders who remain committed to protecting the vision that brought them together in the first place.

Essentially, he emphasized that “the ADC party is a result of political necessity, which is the pattern of instability in other political parties.” Abdullahi argued that these high-profile figures have deliberately chosen to come together to offer a credible alternative in a political environment he described as deeply troubled. According to him, this collective decision was driven by the need to “put an end to the mess the country is in” while ensuring that “democracy still reigns above all.”

Abdullahi further broadened the discussion to Nigeria’s political culture, blaming the nation’s current challenges on the nature of politics practiced over the years. He insisted that Nigeria’s condition today is the direct result of its political habits, adding that escaping this condition depends on choosing a different political path. “Nigeria is in the mess it is today because of the kind of politics we play, and to get out of this mess would depend on the kind of politics we choose to play,” he said.

He raised concerns about looming elections, stating that the party’s major worry is whether Nigeria’s institutions will ensure credible polls. According to him, “ADC’s major concern right now is whether the current institutions will allow a free and fair election to be held in the coming years.” He explained that this question goes beyond party politics because the integrity of the next election will determine how much faith Nigerians can still place in the democratic process.

Abdullahi’s remarks highlight the growing anxiety within opposition parties over the strength of Nigeria’s democratic institutions and the direction of political competition. For the ADC, this moment underscores why the party’s formation and internal structure remain central to offering a fresh path forward, even as the country waits for clarity from the institutions that will shape the next electoral cycle.