Former APC National Vice Chairman, Salihu Lukman, has stated that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) will not allow any prominent politician to hijack its structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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Speaking on Tuesday during an appearance on AIT’s political programme Jigsaw, Salihu Lukman emphasized that while the emerging coalition is open to credible individuals, the party will not surrender its control to anyone, regardless of their popularity.
“We took our time. We did not negotiate with just one individual; we negotiated with the whole leadership. What we are telling everybody in the coalition is that the structures of the party will not be handed over to aspiring candidates.”
Salihu Lukeman added that the coalition wants to build a strong party that can keep politicians accountable, even after they are elected.
“We have to build the structures of the party in such a way that the party is strong enough and can regulate the conduct of everybody, not just aspiring candidates, but even elected representatives when they win office and assume positions,” he explained.
The former minister of transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has shown interest in contesting for president under ADC, while there are rumours that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s 2023 candidate, Peter Obi, may also be eyeing the ticket.
But Salihu Lukman warned that the coalition is not formed just to help anyone become a candidate.
Salihu Lukeman said it is focused on providing Nigerians with a true political alternative in 2027.
Salihu Lukman explained that the goal of the coalition and the 2027 elections is not just to bring out candidates who will eventually fail the people.
Salihu Lukeman said the coalition is determined to prevent Nigeria from becoming a one-party system.
“All we can say is that whatever happens, Nigerians will have an option. Our right to participate in elections will be exercised beyond the confines of the APC,” Salihu Lukeman concluded.
