272
By Myke Agunwa
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Monday opened a new chapter in its political journey with the unveiling of its National Secretariat Complex in Abuja, assuring supporters that the party will perform its activities differently.
The unveiling of the new secretariat located in Wuse II, Abuja which was the former Presidential Campaign office of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar was performed by its National Chairman, Senator David Mark.
In his address the former Senate President said that the new complex not merely as a structure, but as the epicentre of a political realignment driven by Nigerians’ demand for good governance and accountability. He added that the party will take a decisive break from “business as usual,” anchored on integrity, discipline, competence and a renewed commitment to nation-building.
“This complex becomes the operational centre of our political movement,” he said. “From within these walls, strategies will be shaped, ideas refined, and the next generation of leaders will emerge. Let this day mark the end of old divisions and the rise of a stronger, more disciplined and people-oriented political party.”
He emphasized that the ADC coalition was a historic response to national discontent, insisting that the party would model a fresh brand of politics rooted in character, courage and service to the Nigerian people.
Following the unveiling, the party’s National Spokesperson, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, addressed journalists who raised questions about the new headquarters which was formerly used as Atiku Abubakar’s presidential campaign office. Abdullahi dismissed insinuations linking the relocation to the former Vice President.
“Atiku was only a tenant in this building for his presidential campaign. His tenancy has since expired. The ADC is now the lawful tenant. This has nothing to do with Atiku or any political alignment,” he explained. “Our presence here is purely an ADC decision, and that’s why you see other potential presidential aspirants also attending today’s unveiling.”
When asked about the party’s ability to manage competing interests, Abdullahi expressed confidence in the leadership style of Senator Mark.
“We are a political party and disagreements are natural, but we have maintained relatively low conflict levels,” he said. “The difference between us and parties engulfed in crises is fairness. As long as we uphold justice and inclusiveness, we will withstand internal pressures.”
He noted the chairman’s earlier directive that legacy state chairmen would not be sidelined which it has maintained is an indication that the party has honour.
Abdullahi revealed that state chapters were constituting 90-day transition committees ahead of congresses scheduled for February. He added that nationwide membership registration and validation would begin the following week.
“Time is not on our side,” he acknowledged. “INEC’s timetable requires us to complete several processes. Our congresses and non-elective convention will be preceded by comprehensive membership registration.”
Responding to questions about leaders who are still officially registered with their former parties, he said there was no strict deadline but clear expectations.
“For individuals like Malam Nasir El-Rufai and His Excellency Peter Obi, we gave timelines linked to the Anambra election. That election is now concluded, and we expect full alignment,” he said. “None of these leaders has indicated a change in their commitment to the coalition.”
On the party’s unimpressive outing in the recent Anambra governorship election, Abdullahi argued that the context must be understood.
“Anambra is historically APGA’s stronghold. Even the ruling party has struggled to dislodge them. Besides, most of the processes leading to the election had been concluded before the ADC coalition came on board,” he said. “Those results should not define who we are or what we will become.”
Asked whether the ADC is better prepared than the APC for the 2027 polls, Abdullahi reframed the debate.
“The question isn’t about our preparedness versus APC. Nigerians have already shown they don’t want APC to continue,” he noted. “Our task is to convince the people—especially the youth—that ADC is the credible alternative.”
He disclosed that the party had released a public-facing anthem and would soon unveil ethical principles guiding leaders and members.
“We are not just seeking power. We are trying to reset Nigerian politics and restore belief that politics can produce good and responsible leadership,” he said.
The former Minister of Sports confirmed that former ADC members who recently met with the party leadership were welcome, as were disenchanted members of other political parties, including the PDP—on one condition.
“Politics is a game of numbers, but addition must not lead to destruction,” he cautioned. “Anyone joining us must agree to the minimum standards of behavior we have set. We will not admit people who bring the same practices that ruined their former parties.”