The African Democratic Congress on Monday inaugurated its new national secretariat in Abuja, though two key opposition figures the party has been courting, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi were notably absent.
The Telegraph gathered that the building now housing the ADC headquarters previously served as Atiku’s presidential campaign office during the last election, when he ran on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party.
Speaking at the unveiling, the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, dismissed speculation that the move signalled a shift in opposition realignment.
“Atiku used to be the tenant of this building for his presidential campaign, but his tenancy has lapsed. The African Democratic Congress is now the tenant. This is not an indication of anything. It has nothing to do with our movement, this is solely an ADC decision,” Abdullahi said.
He noted that the party remained committed to fairness and internal cohesion ahead of its February congresses.
“At the root of the crises in other parties is injustice and lack of fairness. We are glad that we have kept disagreements within our party relatively low. As long as we uphold the principles that brought us together, even when issues arise, we can resolve them,” he added.
Abdullahi also addressed questions about the status of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and Peter Obi within the opposition coalition.
“You are aware that former Governor 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 everyone to come back fully. For now, leadership positions remain as originally structured within the coalition and the ADC,” he said.
In his remarks, ADC National Chairman, Senator David Mark, described the new headquarters as a symbol of the coalition’s ambition to reshape Nigeria’s political future.
“It is a testament to our resolve to build a greater nation. This coalition is a historic child of necessity, inspired by the people’s desire for good governance, accountability and a stronger democracy,” Mark said.
He added that the new complex would serve as the party’s operational hub for strategy, ideas, and leadership development.
“From within these walls, we will continue to champion policies that uplift communities, strengthen institutions and safeguard the democratic foundations of our republic,” he stated.
Since the launch of the opposition coalition in July, formed to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027, the ADC has insisted that coalition members formally resign from their parties and register with the ADC, a directive that has met resistance from several influential figures.
