By Adesakin Adefemi
A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress in Edo State, Fawaz Muhammad, says the current disagreements rocking the party will ultimately make it stronger, describing the crisis as “typical in a growing family.”
Muhammad, who is seeking a seat in the Edo State House of Assembly, said the issues at both the national level and the state chapter boil down to coordination, communication, inclusion, and infiltration He insisted the challenges must be addressed “with sincerity and unity from the ward level to the national level.”
According to the former Speaker of the Edo State Youth Parliament, internal disputes are not unusual for a party expanding its base. He argued that open disagreements, if properly managed, create room for reform and stronger structures ahead of future elections.
Muhammad also weighed in on the broader political climate, saying the role of the ruling All Progressives Congress is “very critical in shaping the democratic space.” He urged the APC as the party in power to promote fairness and resist actions that could “overheat the polity.”
“Democracy thrives where there is healthy opposition, not suppression,” he said, warning against undue pressure or interference that could stifle smaller parties. He called on the ruling party to allow opposition platforms to operate freely in line with democratic norms.
The ADC chieftain further charged the Independent National Electoral Commission to uphold its constitutional duty as an “independent and impartial umpire.” He said Nigerians must have confidence that processes from party administration to general elections are conducted with transparency, credibility, and fairness.
“Strengthening that trust is essential for the stability of our democracy,” Muhammad noted. He added that INEC’s handling of internal party matters and general polls would determine public faith in the 2027 election cycle and beyond.
He described the current moment as one for “reflection, unity and responsibility” within the ADC. Rather than weaken the party, he believes the disputes will force leaders to improve internal democracy, build better communication channels, and close gaps that allow infiltration.
Muhammad reaffirmed his belief in the ADC, calling it “a party I believe in deeply.” He said the leadership at all levels must rise above personal interests and focus on building a platform that can compete nationally while respecting dissent.
The Edo ADC has faced factional tensions in recent months, mirroring similar disputes at the national level over leadership and congresses. Party members say reconciliation talks are ongoing as the 2026 off-cycle governorship polls in Edo and other states draw closer.
