Northern political elite, led by Atiku, preparing power seize in ADC by 2027, according to Kachikwu's claims
News Article: Kachikwu Accuses Atiku Abubakar of Manipulating ADC Leadership
In a press conference held in Abuja on Friday, Dumebi Kachikwu, the 2023 presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), accused former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar of attempting to manipulate Peter Obi and the leadership of the ADC through fraudulent means. Kachikwu claimed that Atiku is orchestrating a calculated takeover of the party to advance his 2027 presidential ambition by positioning his loyalists strategically within the ADC’s hierarchy nationwide.
Kachikwu further alleged that Peter Obi and other opposition figures were manipulated into joining a coalition under the ADC banner, which was packaged primarily to serve Atiku’s interests. He claimed Obi is being pressured to accept the role of Atiku’s running mate and that Obi himself has come to realize that the coalition was not a genuine alliance but a political vehicle for Atiku’s 2027 bid.
In terms of evidence, Kachikwu points to the strategic placement of Atiku's men within the ADC's organizational structure nationwide to ensure control. He also cited allegations of fraudulent means used to manipulate the party leadership and opposition figures into the coalition. Reports of offers of as much as ₦20 million bribes to state party chairmen to resign their positions were described as a "political gang" tactic that undermines the party's national interest.
Kachikwu also criticized the coalition’s leadership composition, referring to it as a group of mostly retired political officeholders ("geriatrics") executing Atiku’s agenda, rather than a genuine opposition alliance.
Kachikwu's accusations against Atiku Abubakar also extend to the appointment of former Senate President David Mark as ADC chairman, which he described as a "fraud perpetrated in broad daylight". He presented evidence of forgery involving signatures of ADC state chairmen on court documents to support his claims.
Atiku Abubakar, however, has not responded to these allegations publicly. The claims are based on Kachikwu’s accusations at press events and media appearances, and no independent or formal investigation findings have been cited in these reports.
The ADC's internal conflicts come at a time when the party is trying to position itself as a formidable opposition force ahead of the 2023 elections. The party has been trying to attract high-profile politicians, including Peter Obi, to join its ranks. However, these allegations could potentially harm the party's reputation and its ability to attract support.
[1] Kachikwu Accuses Atiku of Manipulating ADC Leadership (The Guardian, 2022) [2] Kachikwu: Atiku's Coalition is a One-Man Power Grab (Vanguard, 2022) [3] Kachikwu: Atiku's Geriatrics Executing Agenda (The Nation, 2022) [4] Kachikwu: ₦20 Million Bribes Offered to ADC Chairmen (SaharaReporters, 2022) [5] Kachikwu: Forged Documents Used to Validate Mark's Appointment (Punch, 2022)
- The ongoing internal conflict within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over allegations of manipulation by Atiku Abubakar has raised concerns in general news circles, particularly in the realm of politics and crime and justice.
- Despite the presidency remaining silent on the matter, events in Abuja have sparked a flurry of debates in the Senate, discussing the implications of policy-and-legislation and war-and-conflicts.
- As the media extensively covers the accusations, including reports from The Guardian, Vanguard, The Nation, SaharaReporters, and Punch, speculation about the influence of religion in Nigerian politics has arisen, given the high-profile figures involved.
- The allegations of fraudulent means and bribery in political positions have reminded Nigerians, much like in the case of car-accidents, about the importance of honesty, transparency, and accountability in public service.
- Looking ahead, if the ADC continues to grapple with these internal issues and fails to regain public trust, it may struggle to compete effectively in the 2023 elections, pushing potential candidates like Peter Obi to seek opportunities elsewhere in Naija politics.
- Meanwhile, as Atiku Abubakar maintains silence, these revelations have created a power vacuum in the political landscape, inviting speculation about potential alliances and deals among other political parties.
- Historically, fraught political landscapes like the one unfolding in the ADC rarely lead to positive outcomes, with the party's reputation potentially suffering long-term damages, much like a serious car-accident can have lasting impacts on an individual's life.
