A prominent leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mallam Salihu Moh. Lukman, has declared that the party, along with its growing coalition, is now the political home for members of the Obidient movement and other progressive Nigerians seeking real change.
Appearing on Channels Television Tuesday morning, the former National Vice Chairman (Northwest) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) emphasized that unity among opposition forces is essential to defeating the ruling APC and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in future elections.
According to Lukman, the ADC is prepared to embrace and support whoever emerges from its presidential primary, whether it’s Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, or any other credible aspirant, as long as they are committed to national development and willing to rise above the failures of past administrations.
“If Peter Obi emerges as ADC’s presidential candidate, we will all rally behind him to help overcome the shortcomings of the past. The same goes for Atiku Abubakar or any other credible figure. What matters is building a united front capable of rescuing Nigeria,” Lukman stated during the interview, monitored by The Trumpet in Abuja.
Lukman urged all supporters of the Obidient movement and other political blocs to join hands with the ADC and its coalition partners to strengthen the opposition and build a credible platform for 2027 and beyond. He stressed that internal division among opposition leaders would only hand an easy victory to the APC.
He explained that the ADC is offering a new political model, one where humility, democratic principles, and internal party discipline take precedence over personal ambition and political entitlement.
“Our primary process will be a true test of democracy. No one will be handed the ticket on a silver platter. Aspirants must win the support of members through open, credible, and transparent primaries,” Lukman said.
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He also dismissed speculation that the coalition has already agreed on a presidential candidate, clarifying that no such decision has been made. Instead, the party is focused on ensuring that whoever emerges from its internal process reflects the collective will of the people and is ready to lead with integrity.
“There is no backdoor arrangement. If we truly want to be different from APC and PDP, then our leaders must earn the trust of Nigerians, not demand it. Leadership must be about service, not self-glorification,” he added.
Reflecting on his experience in the APC, Lukman warned against the dangers of blind loyalty and cult-like support for political figures. He said the ADC is determined to build a party where leaders remain accountable and grounded in the people’s mandate.
“The era of ‘on your mandate we stand’ has produced emperors, not servants of the people. We must move away from that. In ADC, we want a culture where leaders continuously seek the approval and guidance of party members. That’s how to build trust, and that’s the new direction we are offering Nigerians,” he concluded.
