A federal lawmaker, Ifeanyi Uzokwe, has accused former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of dominating the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and undermining internal democracy within the opposition coalition, leading to the recent wave of defections from the party.
Speaking during a television interview on Politics Today, Uzokwe said he and several serving and former lawmakers left the ADC after what he described as claims by Atiku that the coalition effectively belonged to him and was formed under his control.
He alleged that Atiku insisted no one within the party could challenge his authority, a development he said triggered dissatisfaction among members and weakened trust in the coalition’s structure.
Uzokwe further claimed that efforts were made by some stakeholders to persuade Atiku to withdraw his presidential ambition in the interest of fairness and regional balance, particularly to allow southern aspirants a clearer path ahead of future elections.
According to him, discussions were held suggesting that figures such as Peter Obi and Rotimi Amaechi be allowed to participate in open primaries to ensure inclusiveness within the coalition.
He argued that the refusal to prioritise internal democracy and power rotation created deep divisions within the ADC, especially among lawmakers who expected a more transparent political arrangement.
The lawmaker also said several consultations were held among aggrieved members, including meetings with key political actors, but efforts to reach a consensus favouring zoning to the South were unsuccessful.
Uzokwe contrasted Atiku’s position with other political groups, noting that some movements, including the Kwankwasiyya group linked to Rabiu Kwankwaso, were reportedly open to power rotation to the South.
He maintained that the internal disagreements and leadership struggles within the ADC contributed significantly to the exit of several prominent politicians from the coalition.
