Kachikwu Explodes: Atiku, Allies Offering ₦20m Bribes To Force ADC State Chairmen To Resign

Dumebi Kachikwu, the 2023 presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has accused former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other opposition coalition members of plotting to forcefully take control of the ADC.

Speaking during a press briefing on Thursday, Kachikwu branded the coalition—allegedly led by Atiku—as a “political gang” rather than a legitimate alliance, claiming they are working behind the scenes to destabilize the party.

He alleged that some state chairmen of the ADC are being offered bribes as high as ₦20 million to step down from their positions.

Kachikwu questioned the true motive of the coalition, arguing it is not about serving Nigerians but rather a self-serving attempt to regain influence and escape the tough economic realities they face since leaving office.

“There’s a wave of calculated misinformation being pushed by these agents of disruption disguised as a political coalition. But let’s be clear: there’s a big difference between a coalition and a gang. A coalition operates with vision and values—this group operates purely for selfish gain,” he said.

According to him, the coalition is simply trying to revive their own fortunes, not the nation’s.

He also refuted claims suggesting he’s a spokesperson for President Bola Tinubu.

“They accuse me of being paid by President Tinubu. Frankly, it would be an honour to represent the leader of the largest Black nation on earth—but I am not on anyone’s payroll. These are baseless attempts to discredit me by people with no visible source of livelihood.”

Kachikwu dismissed claims by Bolaji Abdullahi and others that he lacks authority within the ADC, insisting that every member of the party is a stakeholder and has the right to speak up.

“If they believe bribing our officials will get them control of the party, they’re delusional. The Nigerian constitution doesn’t allow anyone to seize party leadership through coercion or financial manipulation,” he said.

He concluded by accusing the coalition of engaging in fraudulent practices to push a fake rescue agenda, saying: “If you must lie and deceive to build your so-called mission, you’ve already failed.”