ADC Accuses APC of Orchestrating Paid Protest to Destabilize Opposition
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has leveled serious allegations against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), claiming a plot to stage a paid protest on Thursday demanding the removal of ADC National Chairman, Senator David Mark. According to the ADC, this move is part of a broader strategy to destabilize the party following the high-profile defection of former Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso to the ADC.
Details of the Alleged Plot
In a statement released on Wednesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, via his X handle, the ADC asserted that the APC has activated a plan to hire a crowd to pose as aggrieved party members. The protest is scheduled for Thursday, April 2nd, in Abuja, and is allegedly sponsored by a "particularly notorious minister." The ADC claims this tactic was adopted after failed attempts to pressure the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) into dismantling the David Mark-led leadership.
The statement reads: "After meeting a brick wall with INEC, they have now changed tactics, but the objectives remain the same. Information reaching us this morning is that a public protest is being planned for tomorrow, Thursday, 2nd April, in Abuja, sponsored by a particularly notorious minister."
APC's Alleged Motives and ADC's Response
The ADC alleges that the APC's goal is to hijack the leadership of the ADC, which it describes as the only viable opposition party left in Nigeria. The party warned that this plot has reached a new level of desperation in recent days. "The plan is simple: a paid crowd, posturing as aggrieved party members, will take to the streets demanding 'David Mark Must Go.' This, they hope, will create 'public pressure' on the INEC Chairman," the ADC stated.
Furthermore, the ADC accused the APC of being afraid of the momentum gained from Kwankwaso's defection and the potential for change in the political landscape. "They are not just afraid of our momentum. They are afraid of what happens when the Nigerian people start paying attention and begin to believe that change is possible," the party added.
ADC's Stance and Call to Action
Despite the allegations, the ADC emphasized its commitment to remaining law-abiding and focused on its duty to Nigerians. However, it vowed to resist any unlawful actions by all necessary legal means. The party also called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene, stating, "If they are not acting on his orders, President Tinubu should rein in his enforcers before it is too late."
This development highlights the escalating tensions between Nigeria's major political parties, with the ADC positioning itself as a key opposition force amid allegations of external interference aimed at undermining its leadership and stability.
