Leaders of the African Democratic Congress in the South-West have dismissed reports of a growing rift between the party’s regional structure and its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, insisting that the zone remains firmly behind him ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The leaders said reports that party officials were dissatisfied with Mr Atiku over alleged failure to provide transportation allowances and claims that he had sidelined the party structure were misleading and politically motivated.
The immediate past South-West Zonal Chairman of the ADC, Rasak Eyiowuawi, made the position known in a statement issued on Sunday on behalf of what he described as the authentic ADC leadership across the region.
Mr Eyiowuawi described reports of disaffection as an attempt by a few individuals to create the impression of division within the party and undermine Mr Atiku’s political standing.
“Let us make this absolutely clear: this is false, mischievous and a desperate attempt to create a crisis where none exists,” he said.
He said committed ADC leaders in the South-West recognised Mr Atiku’s political experience and leadership capacity and remained supportive of his presidential ambition.
“Atiku is doing well, and we have no apology for standing with him,” Mr Eyiowuawi added.
Earlier report alleged marginalisation
The statement followed a report that some ADC leaders in the South-West had complained about being sidelined from Mr Atiku’s political activities.
The earlier report said some state chairmen and governorship candidates alleged that the presidential candidate was conducting activities through friends and allies rather than the established party structures. It also cited complaints over an alleged failure to provide transportation support for state chairmen who travelled to Abuja for a meeting.
However, South-West ADC Chairman Akin Omole had earlier rejected the suggestion that the issue constituted a serious problem, saying the party was a coalition involving political allies from different backgrounds.
The Lagos State ADC Chairman, George Ashiru, also said the absence of state campaign councils did not amount to sidelining party executives, explaining that campaign structures would be announced and constituted at the appropriate time.
Eyiowuawi rejects claims of division
Mr Eyiowuawi urged individuals with grievances to use the party’s internal mechanisms rather than present personal complaints as the collective position of the South-West.
He also accused unnamed individuals of attempting to discredit the ADC’s presidential project and weaken confidence in its leadership.
He said the South-West was not abandoning Mr Atiku and remained committed to securing victory for the party in 2027.
“The South-West is not in revolt. The South-West is not abandoning Atiku. The South-West is ready for 2027!” he declared.
Party calls for unity
The ADC leaders said their position was anchored on continued support for Mr Atiku, party unity, rejection of political blackmail and opposition to what they described as manufactured divisions.
Mr Eyiowuawi maintained that the ADC was not the personal property of any individual and warned against using the identity of the entire South-West to advance personal political interests.
He urged party members and stakeholders to remain focused on strengthening the ADC’s structures and preparing for the 2027 elections.
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