ADC explains absence of Atiku, Obi at Abuja secretariat unveiling

The African Democratic Congress, ADC, has clarified why former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, were absent during the unveiling of the party’s new national secretariat in Abuja on November 17.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC dismissed reports suggesting that Obi shunned the event because the building previously served as Atiku’s campaign office.

InfoStride News reports that while ADC National Chairman, David Mark; National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola; and former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, attended the ceremony, neither Obi nor Atiku was present or issued a formal statement.

Inaugurating the secretariat, Mark described the edifice as a symbol of the coalition’s determination to redefine Nigeria’s political landscape.

“It is a physical testament to our collective resolve to build a greater nation. This ADC coalition is a historic child of necessity, inspired by the people’s desire for good governance, greater accountability, and a stronger democracy,” he said.

Obi’s absence had triggered speculations that he rejected the venue because of its past affiliation with Atiku.

However, Abdullahi debunked the insinuations, affirming that Obi remained committed to the coalition. He explained that the former Anambra governor was out of the country at the time of the event, while Atiku was unavailable due to other engagements.

“The programme was impromptu; most of the party leaders were not in attendance. Obi was out of the country, and Atiku wasn’t available. There’s nothing to suggest that Peter Obi is withdrawing from the coalition. He is still with us,” Abdullahi said.

He further clarified ownership of the building, stressing that Atiku neither owned nor donated the facility to the ADC.

“Atiku leased the building, and his rent had expired. The ADC rented the building,” he noted.

Abdullahi added that the party leaders remain united and focused on their objective of unseating President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.