***Pledges to rescue Nigeria from Economic hardship, Insecurity
The Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the forthcoming general elections has pledged to lead a united opposition movement aimed at rescuing Nigeria from what he described as economic hardship, insecurity and democratic decline under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking after emerging as the party’s flagbearer at the ADC presidential primaries, the candidate expressed profound appreciation to party members for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the party into the elections.
He described his emergence as a humbling experience and commended the ADC for conducting what he termed a free, fair and transparent democratic process, despite what he alleged were attempts by the ruling government to suppress opposition politics in the country.
According to him, the ADC has demonstrated that democracy remains alive within its fold at a time when democratic values are being undermined nationwide.
The candidate alleged that several opposition political parties in the country are currently facing internal crises allegedly engineered by the APC-led government in collaboration with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and elements within the judiciary.
He also condemned the continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, describing it as politically motivated. He said El-Rufai, despite court orders granting him bail, had remained in detention for months and was denied the opportunity to spend important religious celebrations with his family and to be with his late mother before her death.
Describing the situation as cruelty and abuse of power, the ADC candidate accused the Federal Government of using security and anti-corruption agencies to intimidate and coerce opposition politicians into joining the APC.
He claimed that investigations and charges against some politicians are often discontinued once they defect to the ruling party, warning that such practices pose serious threats to democracy.
The presidential candidate further alleged that there were ongoing attempts to interfere in the affairs of the ADC, including moves to undermine or deregister the party.
He warned that any further interference by the Presidency, INEC or the judiciary would be strongly resisted, insisting that enough was enough.
While congratulating other contestants who participated in the primary election, he urged party members and supporters to remain united ahead of the general elections.
He stressed that the primary election was not about winners or losers but about collective efforts to rescue the country from what he described as the “destructive grip” of the APC administration.
The ADC candidate also commended the party’s primary election committee, leadership organs, stakeholders and volunteers for ensuring a peaceful and credible process.
He maintained that the task ahead would require sacrifice, unity and hard work, adding that the opposition coalition was determined to reverse the nation’s worsening economic situation, insecurity, political intolerance and alleged drive toward a one-party state.
According to him, the real work begins now as the party prepares to campaign vigorously ahead of the next general elections.
