According to a statement by Austin Okai, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, Nigerians should continue to support the party despite some leaders’ children being part of the ruling All Progressives Congress. This comes after Abba, son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, joined the APC on Thursday. Similarly, Bello El-Rufai, son of Nasir El-Rufai, a former governor of Kaduna State and ADC leader, is also a member of the APC.
Okai’s comments were made in response to these developments, emphasizing the importance of individual choice in politics. In a Facebook post on Friday, he noted that the ADC is a democratic platform where members are driven by conviction rather than family ties. This approach, he suggested, sets the party apart in a country where loyalty is often forced and political power is inherited.
The ADC chieftain argued that the party’s commitment to freedom of choice is a key reason why Nigerians should rally behind it. He stated that the ADC is not a “family franchise or a closed club,” but rather a party that values the independence of its members. This stance is significant in the Nigerian political landscape, where the actions of leaders’ children can often influence public perception of a party.
The decision of Abba and Bello El-Rufai to join the APC has sparked interest in the political allegiance of family members of prominent politicians. However, Okai’s statement highlights the ADC’s focus on individual conviction and freedom of choice, rather than family loyalty. As the political landscape in Nigeria continues to evolve, the ADC’s approach may resonate with voters seeking a more inclusive and democratic political environment. With its commitment to upholding the principles of democracy, the ADC is likely to remain a significant player in Nigerian politics.
