African Democratic Congress (ADC) lawmaker Leke Abejide has vowed to assert his authority within the party, warning an opposition coalition led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar that they will not be allowed to hijack the party without a fight.

Abejide, who represents the Yagba East/West/Mopamuro constituency in Kogi state, made the comments in an interview on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, emphasizing that he was instrumental in the ADC’s current standing. He pointed to the recent by-elections as a turning point, claiming that the coalition’s fate is all but sealed.

“You cannot come to somebody’s house, hijack his house, and expect the person to simply look on,” Abejide stated. “I will let them know that I am the landlord. I didn’t establish the party, but I am the one who has kept it relevant today.”

Abejide had previously vowed to wrest control of the ADC from Atiku’s coalition, which recently took over the party’s leadership in preparation for the 2027 presidential election. The lawmaker claims that this move was unconstitutional and has pledged to resist the coalition’s attempts to dominate the ADC.

The coalition, led by Atiku and comprising prominent figures such as David Mark, Rotimi Amaechi, Dino Melaye, and Babachir Lawal, is seen as a formidable force in Nigerian politics. However, Abejide remains determined to assert his authority within the ADC, pointing to his own contributions to the party’s growth and development.

With tensions simmering within the ADC, the stage is set for a showdown between Abejide and the opposition coalition. As the party prepares for the 2027 presidential election, the outcome of this internal struggle could have far-reaching implications for Nigerian politics.