Amaechi rejects ADC primary result, alleging widespread voter disenfranchisement and electoral irregularities in the party’s presidential primary

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential primary has come under intense scrutiny following allegations of widespread voter disenfranchisement, with former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, rejecting the outcome of the exercise.

Also read: Amaechi says opposition failures undermine Nigeria’s elections

In a strongly worded statement, Amaechi described the results of the ADC presidential primary rejection as “concocted,” insisting that the process fell short of the principles of fairness, transparency and internal democracy promised by the party.

He said he had earlier pledged to accept the outcome only if the primary was conducted in a credible manner, adding that the developments observed during the exercise violated that commitment.

“There’s no way that about eighty percent of members of the party were not allowed to vote, and you expect me to accept such results,” he said.

Amaechi argued that the African Democratic Congress was founded as an alternative political platform aimed at addressing impunity and poor governance, and should not replicate the same electoral flaws it has consistently criticised in other parties.

He further faulted what he described as contradictions within the party, noting that an organisation that has repeatedly accused the All Progressives Congress and the Independent National Electoral Commission of vote buying and result manipulation must not engage in similar practices.

The ADC presidential primary rejection, he said, raises serious questions about the credibility of the party’s internal processes and its readiness to present a viable alternative ahead of future elections.

Amaechi maintained that the essence of the party was to give Nigerians a platform that amplifies the voices of the downtrodden and ensures inclusivity across ethnic and religious lines.

Political observers say the controversy could deepen internal divisions within the ADC if urgent steps are not taken to address the allegations and restore confidence among stakeholders.