Onanuga Denies Tinubu’s Role in ADC Crisis, Criticises Peter Obi

Onanuga Denies Tinubu’s Role in ADC Crisis, Criticises Peter Obi

Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga has dismissed claims linking Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the leadership crisis in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the allegations as baseless and politically motivated.

In a strongly worded statement, Onanuga accused Peter Obi and his supporters of turning the President into a “whipping boy” for internal problems within opposition parties. He insisted that Tinubu has no involvement in the ADC crisis, stressing that the challenges facing the party are self-inflicted.

Onanuga linked the turmoil within the ADC to Obi’s recent political moves, particularly his exit from the Labour Party Nigeria after the 2023 presidential election. He described the move as a “use-and-dump” strategy, arguing that Obi failed to build a lasting political structure within the party.

The presidential aide also criticised Obi’s reliance on the Obidient movement, describing it as largely online-driven rather than a fully developed political organisation. According to him, Obi’s decision to align with the ADC reflects a need for an existing political structure ahead of the 2027 elections.

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Onanuga further alleged that the ADC crisis stems from internal disputes following claims that the party was “hijacked” by political interests linked to former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar from party founder Ralph Nwosu. He suggested that lack of due diligence by new stakeholders contributed to the current leadership crisis.

Reiterating his stance, Onanuga said there is “absolutely no connection” between President Tinubu and the ADC’s internal struggles. He urged Obi and other party stakeholders to focus on resolving disputes within their ranks, including reconciling with aggrieved members such as Nafiu Gombe.

The presidential spokesman also downplayed Obi’s chances ahead of the 2027 general elections, stating that he remains politically irrelevant without securing a party ticket. He noted that Obi’s third-place finish in the 2023 election does not guarantee future success.

The exchange highlights growing tensions within Nigeria’s opposition space, as parties grapple with leadership crises, shifting alliances, and preparations for 2027. Analysts say the ADC situation reflects broader challenges facing opposition politics, including internal divisions and struggles to build cohesive structures.

Onanuga concluded by defending the Tinubu administration, saying the President, as an incumbent, has achievements to present to Nigerians, and accused critics of attempting to undermine his record with unfounded claims.

Onanuga Denies Tinubu’s Role in ADC Crisis, Criticises Peter Obi