Nigeria's Ruling Party Mourns Loss of Influential Social Media Supporter
The political landscape in Nigeria has been shaken by the untimely death of Chika Jewel Okparaeke, widely known as Ada Buhari, a prominent social media influencer and staunch supporter of the All Progressives Congress. The ruling party has officially confirmed her passing, expressing profound grief over the loss of one of their most vocal digital advocates.
APC Leadership Extends Heartfelt Condolences
Felix Morka, the national publicity secretary of the APC, conveyed the party's official condolences through a detailed statement posted on their social media platforms. "We extend our deepest sympathies to the immediate family of Miss Okparaeke, her loved ones, and the entire APC family," Morka declared. He emphasized that the party takes solace in the "enduring legacies she leaves behind, especially in shaping and amplifying the Party's core message to Nigerians."
The APC described Ada Buhari as exhibiting "stoic, courageous, and unwavering" commitment when defending the policies and administration of the ruling party. Party officials specifically highlighted her passion, dedication, and boldness in advancing APC ideals across various social media platforms and public spaces.
Void Created in Party's Digital Strategy
According to the APC's official statement, Ada Buhari's demise has created a significant void within the party's communication apparatus. The party praised her "uncommon dedication and excellence in her work for the Party" while acknowledging her personal achievements beyond political activism. Her role in shaping party messaging and connecting with younger demographics through digital platforms was particularly noted as an irreplaceable contribution.
Supporters Raise Questions and Concerns
Following the announcement of her death, numerous APC supporters and political observers have expressed both condolences and curiosity about the circumstances surrounding her passing. Several key questions have emerged from social media discussions:
- Cause of Death: Many supporters have questioned why the official announcement didn't specify the cause of death for the young, vibrant influencer
- Political Recognition: Some have wondered why she never received any political appointment despite her significant contributions to amplifying APC policies
- Medical Care: Questions have been raised about whether she received adequate medical attention compared to other party officials
- Past Endorsements: Rumors have surfaced suggesting she may have endorsed opposition candidate Peter Obi before her death
Social Media Reactions Reflect Mixed Sentiments
The online community has responded with a mixture of mourning and critical commentary. One supporter, Leonardo, expressed confusion: "What happened to her, please? You spoke a lot of English without telling us what happened to a young, vibrant and unmarried lady like her." Another commenter, Patrick Ede, noted the irony of her situation: "She was so good at amplifying policies, but never good at being appointed to any position."
More critical voices emerged as well, with Charles commenting: "It's quite unfortunate that she didn't see Nigeria work in her lifetime. I'm sure the APC hospitals disappointed her, whereas the people she supports are very quick to fly overseas for medicals." These reactions highlight the complex relationship between political supporters and the parties they champion.
Broader Context of Political Losses
This tragedy follows recent reports of other APC chieftains passing away under unclear circumstances. Just weeks earlier, the Kogi State government announced the death of three prominent APC leaders without providing details about the causes of their demise. This pattern of unexplained deaths among party supporters has raised broader questions about transparency and accountability within political circles.
The legacy of Ada Buhari serves as a reminder of the evolving role of social media influencers in Nigerian politics. Her dedication to digital political advocacy represents a new frontier in political communication, while her untimely death underscores the need for clearer communication from political parties about the welfare of their most committed supporters.
