The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has inaugurated a National Reconciliation and Peace Committee to address grievances from its recent primary elections and strengthen unity before the 2027 general polls.
The initiative, unveiled in Abuja on Wednesday, reflects the party’s effort to rebuild trust among members and present a united front.
ADC National Chairman, David Mark, said the committee was created to resolve disputes that emerged after the May primaries and the release of candidate lists by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
He acknowledged that while the primaries produced candidates, they also left some aspirants and supporters disappointed.
Mark urged successful candidates to treat their victories as responsibilities rather than opportunities to sideline rivals. “There should be no permanent winners or losers in the ADC. All members belong to the same political family,” he said.
Committee’s Mandate
The reconciliation committee has been tasked with engaging aggrieved members, listening to their concerns, and restoring confidence in the party’s processes.
Mark directed the body to establish zonal sub‑committees to sustain dialogue across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
He warned against internal sabotage and revenge politics, stressing that the ADC could not afford to enter the 2027 elections divided.
He appealed to unsuccessful aspirants to remain committed, while encouraging winners to reach out to their former opponents.
Leadership Response
Responding on behalf of the committee, Chairman Tunde Ogbeha said members were prepared to listen, heal divisions, and rebuild trust.
He acknowledged that tensions had surfaced in several states but insisted that dialogue and fairness could resolve them. “We must place Nigeria first, the party second, and personal interests last,” Ogbeha said.
He assured members that the committee would uphold justice, transparency, and fairness in its engagements. Ogbeha also urged aggrieved aspirants to remain patient, noting that those who did not secure tickets for 2027 would have opportunities in future elections.
The ADC’s reconciliation effort comes at a time when opposition parties are positioning themselves for the 2027 elections. Unity within parties is critical if the party hopes to wrestly power form a the behemoth that the rulling All Progressives Congress (APC) has become.
By prioritising reconciliation, the ADC hopes to demonstrate maturity and strengthen its appeal to voters.
Mark described the exercise as an opportunity for the party to embody the values of the Nigeria it envisions—where differences are handled constructively, diversity is respected, and disputes are resolved peacefully.
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