By CHARLES IWUOHA

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has refuted reports of division in the party over ongoing coalition program ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement released on Monday, Comrade Nkem Ukandu, who doubles as the Deputy National Secretary of the party and spokesperson to the National Chairman, described the reports as misleading and a deliberate attempt to sow seeds of discord within a united political family.

He said, "The African Democratic Congress remains firmly united and guided by the same founding principles that have kept us strong and consistent over the years. We are open to collaboration with all progressive-minded Nigerians, and we have demonstrated this by amending our Constitution to accommodate partners who are equally passionate about national development."

The deputy national secretary emphasized that the ADC has always been a party of principle and dialogue. ?Handshake has always been in our DNA ? not out of desperation, but because we believe in inclusive governance and coalition ? building based on shared values. We are a party built on clear ideological direction and structured leadership," he added.

Stressing that the party did not make its coalition decision in haste, Ukandu explained, ?We consulted widely, deeply engaged stakeholders across zones, and only moved forward after reaching a well-considered consensus.?

He recalled that at the NEC meeting held at NICON Luxury Hotel, Abuja, in 2024, the National Executive Committee (NEC) unanimously endorsed the coalition strategy, with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) present to observe proceedings.

?Following that, we held additional NEC meetings, including one in October of the same year. In total, we convened over four NEC meetings ? all focused on solidifying our position. In some of these gatherings, coalition partners were admitted as observers, and INEC?s statutory presence reaffirmed the legitimacy of the process."

He added that no dissenting voice was recorded during National Working Committee (NWC) meetings, reinforcing the party?s internal cohesion and shared vision.

?This party is united in purpose, and we are fully committed to building a credible coalition to rescue Nigeria from its current challenges,? Ukandu said.

Reflecting on the recently held ADC Global Summit on May 14, 2025, he stated that state and zonal chairmen all spoke in alignment with the coalition strategy.

"Notably, our Lagos State Chairman, George Ashiru, delivered a compelling speech that captured the conviction and passion of our members nationwide."

Ukandu noted that at its inception, the ADC was created to transform Nigeria in partnership with multiple patriots across the country.

?That vision remains alive. Our party has always been about bold ideas, collective effort, and purposeful leadership,? he stressed.

He assured members of the party and Nigerians at large that the ADC is a well-thought-out political movement with structures, values, and depth.

?Any external force attempting to disrupt our progress or sow confusion within our ranks will ultimately fail. ADC is focused, united, and unstoppable. No matter the political shenanigans of the APC-led government, they cannot derail this moving train," the deputy national secretary noted.

Update news