2027: ADC inaugurates reconciliation committee to address primary grievances

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has launched a National Reconciliation and Peace Committee to tackle grievances stemming from its recent primaries and bolster the party's standing before the 2027 general elections. The committee was founded by the ADC's National Chairman David Mark during a ceremony in Abuja on Wednesday. Mark highlighted the committee's aim to mend rifts, restore confidence, and ensure every member feels appreciated and integrated within the party's political structure.

The ADC primary elections held in May and the subsequent outcomes, as well as the candidate list released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), faced varying responses from party members, leading to some dissatisfaction among aspirants and their supporters. Mark cautioned that while the elections yielded winners, they also produced disappointments and grievances among some candidates and their backers.

He urged the successful candidates to consider their victories a responsibility rather than a chance to marginalize their former rivals, emphasizing that those who did not win still held value for the party. The ADC prioritizes creating a cohesive and disciplined platform for the 2027 elections, with the reconciliation committee tasked to interact with disgruntled members, address their concerns, and rebuild trust.

The committee will also establish zonal sub-committees to maintain ongoing engagement and urges party leaders and members to foster peace, fairness, and unity within the party. Mark cautioned against internal sabotage, revenge politics, and the notion of permanent winners and losers, urging unity under the banner of being one political family.

The ADC cannot afford to go into the 2027 general elections divided, he stressed, urging members to respect democratic procedures and settle disagreements without weakening the party. The committee's chairman, Senator Tunde Ogbeha, stated that members recognize the challenges ahead and are dedicated to listening to grievances, mending wounds, and rebuilding trust within the party.

Ogbeha emphasized that although the primaries and other political processes have generated some injuries across the states, they believe these issues can be resolved. He urged members to prioritize Nigeria first, the party second, and individual interests last, assuring that the committee will uphold justice, transparency, and fairness in its operations.

Ogbeha encouraged aggrieved aspirants and their supporters to remain patient and committed to the party, noting that those who lost the 2027 tickets will have future opportunities to contest. The committee, led by Ogbeha and Deputy Chairman Senator Oserheimen Osunbor, comprises members such as Dr Ahmad Ajuji, Barrister Musa Elayo, Senator Andrew Uchendu, Dr Bon Unachukwu, Mr Kunle Ige, Hon.

Hajia Rabi Sule, Hon. Abubakar Kanike, and Peter Oyewale, Esq., as secretary, with Isaac Dare Oketade serving as deputy secretary. The committee will also partner with six zonal legal advisers to oversee its activities and engagements across different zones.