ADC Spokesperson Breaks Silence: Why We Lost The By-Elections — ‘It’s Not What It Looks Like

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has urged Nigerians not to judge the party based on its poor outing in the August 16 by-elections, where it failed to secure a single seat.

The polls, conducted to fill vacancies left by deaths or resignations after the 2023 elections, saw the All Progressives Congress (APC) clinch 12 out of 16 seats, while the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) secured two in Anambra, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) one in Oyo, and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) one in Kano.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, ADC spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi explained that the election came too soon after the party’s leadership transition and should not be seen as a true reflection of its strength.

He said:

“The election happened less than a month after we came into the party. Most of the candidates, we didn’t even know them. That’s why we insist that ADC should not be judged by that outcome. The by-election was too early for us in terms of transition. Other elections are coming, and we will be ready.”

Abdullahi added that, with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) now officially recognising the David Mark-led leadership of the ADC, the party will soon begin a nationwide reconciliation and mobilisation drive to build a stronger structure ahead of 2027.

He stressed that ADC’s focus is on building a mass movement, not chasing quick wins, saying:

“We want Nigerians to get to 2027 and ask themselves—has this ruling party improved our lives or made them worse? When they seek change, they should see the ADC as a viable alternative.”