A civic advocacy group known as The Handshake Movement (THM) has called on individuals seeking the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress to respect the party’s internal guidelines and democratic procedures as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.
The organisation made the appeal while commenting on the growing interest among political figures who are believed to be positioning themselves for the party’s presidential ticket.
Among those frequently mentioned in political discussions are former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, and former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi.
In a statement issued by its National Secretary, Chinedu Okpalanma, the group emphasised that the ADC presidential primary must be guided strictly by fairness, transparency and respect for the party’s constitution.
According to the organisation, adherence to due process will help strengthen the credibility of the party as it seeks to position itself as a strong political alternative in Nigeria.
The group stressed that the ADC presidential primary should not become a source of division among party leaders or aspirants.
Instead, it should serve as a democratic platform for selecting a candidate who can unite members and inspire public confidence ahead of the 2027 polls.
Okpalanma noted that unity among aspirants will play a crucial role in determining how Nigerians perceive the party’s seriousness and readiness to govern.
He warned that internal conflicts or disregard for established party procedures could weaken the party’s ability to present itself as a credible political force.
According to the group, Nigeria is currently passing through a difficult period marked by economic pressure on households, growing insecurity in several regions and rising unemployment among young people.
These challenges, THM argued, have reduced public trust in governance and intensified calls for alternative leadership.
The movement explained that many Nigerians now feel disconnected from political decision-making, while a significant number of citizens believe that national development has not adequately reflected their aspirations or needs.
As a result, the political environment is increasingly characterised by uncertainty and frustration.
THM also warned that democratic systems can weaken gradually when opposition platforms fail to cooperate or when political competition is driven more by personal ambition than national interest.
In such circumstances, the group said, voters may lose confidence in the political process.
For this reason, the organisation insisted that the ADC presidential primary must reflect democratic best practices that reassure citizens about the integrity of the party’s leadership selection process.
The group observed that the African Democratic Congress is gradually gaining attention among Nigerians who are searching for new political options capable of addressing the country’s persistent governance challenges.
According to THM, the party’s growing visibility places a responsibility on its members and aspirants to demonstrate maturity, discipline and commitment to democratic ideals.
“Personal ambition must never be allowed to weaken the platform that many Nigerians now see as a potential vehicle for national renewal,” the statement noted.
The movement added that the ADC presidential primary should be conducted in a manner that encourages participation from all aspirants while ensuring fairness and transparency throughout the process.
It further emphasised that a credible primary election will make it easier for aspirants who do not emerge as the party’s candidate to rally behind the eventual winner.
Such unity, the group said, is essential for building a strong political campaign capable of competing effectively in the 2027 general elections.
Beyond internal party matters, THM also appealed to Nigerian voters to move away from divisive political narratives based on ethnicity or religion.
The group argued that leadership selection should instead focus on competence, integrity and the ability to implement practical solutions to national problems.
The organisation maintained that Nigeria’s future depends largely on the quality of leadership that emerges from the next election cycle.
Consequently, political parties must ensure that their internal processes encourage merit and accountability.
As part of its broader engagement strategy, THM disclosed plans to begin consultations with individuals interested in contesting the presidency under the African Democratic Congress platform.
The consultations, according to the group, will aim to promote unity among aspirants and prevent avoidable divisions within the party.
The movement also intends to contribute ideas on policy development, grassroots mobilisation and strategic political communication that could help strengthen the party ahead of the next national elections.
By engaging both party leaders and grassroots supporters, the group hopes to encourage the emergence of a broad democratic coalition capable of presenting a credible alternative in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
Ultimately, THM believes that a transparent ADC presidential primary will not only strengthen the internal structure of the party but also signal to Nigerians that democratic values remain central to the country’s political future.
Ireport247news
