The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has said its 2023 presidential candidate, Dumebi Kachikwu, has no role in determining the party’s leadership because he is no longer a member.
Speaking during an interactive session with journalists in Abuja on Saturday, September 13, the party’s interim publicity secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, dismissed Kachikwu’s recent comments on the ADC leadership.
According to Abdullahi, contesting under the party’s platform in 2023 does not give Kachikwu ownership rights or a permanent stake in the ADC.
“He (Kachikwu) had no business in this conversation. He is not even a member of the ADC,” Abdullahi said.
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“That is very clear. A one-time presidential candidate of any party does not own the party. He does not have a say in the direction of the party.
“You were given the ticket of the party to run a particular election. That does not make you a permanent candidate of the party.”
Kachikwu had earlier faulted the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for recognising former Senate President David Mark as ADC national chairman, describing the decision as “irresponsible.”
Abdullahi criticised him for what he called “divisive rhetoric,” especially remarks portraying the party’s leadership as being dominated by “old people.”
The interim spokesman added that while the ADC recognises attempts to destabilise opposition coalitions, it remains committed to defending its unity and direction.