The African Democratic Congress National Legislators Serving and Former Forum has criticised President Bola Tinubu over his remarks describing the party’s national convention as noise and a street convention, warning that such statements could undermine Nigeria’s democratic system.
Speaking during a press conference in Abuja, former House of Representatives member Nnene Ukeje said the country is at a critical point where the survival of democratic institutions and multiparty governance requires collective vigilance.
The forum noted that Tinubu, once a strong advocate for political pluralism and judicial independence, now presides over what it described as a shrinking democratic space. It stressed that his recent comments about the African Democratic Congress convention were dismissive of grassroots political participation.
Defending the party’s approach, the lawmakers said the convention format was deliberate and people oriented, shaped by logistical challenges and a desire to avoid excessive spending. They described the gathering as a reflection of democracy in its most organic form, driven by citizens at the grassroots level.
The group also raised concerns over ongoing legal disputes involving the party, currently before the courts including the Supreme Court and the Federal High Court. It urged the executive arm to respect the principle of separation of powers and avoid actions that could influence judicial outcomes.
Concerns were further heightened by remarks attributed to Femi Gbajabiamila, which the forum claimed suggested support for individuals involved in litigation against the party, potentially creating perceptions of executive interference.
The lawmakers criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission for what they described as inconsistent handling of party leadership issues, warning that perceived bias could erode public trust.
They maintained that the party’s leadership transition complied with the Electoral Act 2026 and reaffirmed the importance of institutional independence, rule of law, and protection of opposition space in sustaining Nigeria’s democracy.
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