With the release of its “Orange Book”—which details the party’s Governance Code of Ethics for public officials elected under its banner—the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has pledged to break away from what it described as Nigeria’s self-serving political culture.
Concurrently, the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), one of the political groups prequalified for registration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), issued a 48-hour ultimatum demanding the electoral body comply with a Federal High Court order regarding its Access Code or face contempt of court proceedings.
Occurring ahead of the 2027 elections, both developments have heightened scrutiny surrounding political accountability, civic participation, and party conduct across the nation.
Speaking at the unveiling of the Orange Book on Tuesday at the ADC National Secretariat in Abuja, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, stated that the document was created to establish ethical standards for elected officials and provide Nigerians with a clear baseline to hold them accountable.
Abdullahi noted that the coalition behind the ADC recognizes that Nigeria’s ongoing challenges stem in part from the nature of its political environment, stressing that a fundamental shift in political culture is essential to drive meaningful progress.
Speaking further, he explained that the Orange Book became necessary due to the widespread disrepute surrounding politics and politicians, noting that bad behavior is rarely punished while good conduct goes largely unrewarded.
According to Abdullahi, the code will apply to all ADC candidates elected to office, including members of the National Assembly, state legislatures, governors, and the president.
He added that because elected officials on the party’s platform are bound by these ethical standards, they will be empowered to reject actions or demands that violate the code.
Backstory…
The unveiling comes as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) continues to position itself as a major opposition platform ahead of the 2027 general elections. The party has attracted prominent political figures and groups in recent months as opposition politicians explore a broader coalition to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress.
The latest governance code is therefore part of the party’s attempt to distinguish its political offering from the established parties, with the ADC presenting the principles as a framework for how its officials should conduct themselves in public office. The party has been increasingly emphasising governance and accountability as it builds its campaign ahead of 2027.
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