The Grassroots Mobilisation Network (GMN), a key support group of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has strongly criticised the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, over comments it claims suggest federal backing for individuals expelled from the party.
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In a statement signed by Idris Bala Musa and issued on Monday in Abuja, the group accused Gbajabiamila of allegedly indicating that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would support Bala Nafiu and Hon. Leke Abejide in efforts to reclaim influence within the ADC.
GMN described the alleged remarks as troubling and called on Nigerians to urge the President to safeguard democratic principles, warning against what it termed attempts to destabilise opposition parties.
According to the group, Gbajabiamila made the comments during a reception marking Abejide’s 20th wedding anniversary and his wife’s 50th birthday, where he was quoted as saying the federal government would support Nafiu in “getting back his party,” enabling Abejide to contest elections under the ADC platform.
The ADC had, at its last national convention, ratified the expulsion of both Abejide and Nafiu over alleged anti-party activities.
Reacting, GMN said the comments, if accurate, point to “a disturbing level of interference” in the affairs of an opposition party and warned of broader implications for Nigeria’s democratic system.
“The audacity of a top government official to publicly assure support for expelled members of an opposition party raises serious concerns,” the statement said.
“It reflects a dangerous pattern that could undermine political pluralism and weaken democratic institutions.”
The group further alleged that such actions suggest a broader strategy aimed at suppressing opposition voices ahead of future elections.
GMN argued that any attempt to impose individuals on a political party violates constitutional provisions, citing Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of association, as well as relevant sections of the Electoral Act governing party autonomy.
“Political parties retain the exclusive right to determine their membership and leadership. Any external interference undermines the rule of law,” the group added.
It called on the National Assembly, civil society organisations, and the international community to closely monitor political developments in the country, particularly as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
The group also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and resist any actions capable of eroding democratic values.
“The ADC will not be handed over through illegitimate means. Nigerians must stand firm in defence of democracy,” the statement concluded.
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