Babachir Lawal hails ADC congresses in Adamawa as model of internal democracy
The north-east zonal chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Babachir Lawal, has commended the conduct of the party’s congresses in Adamawa state, describing the exercise as a demonstration of internal democracy and a model for electoral processes in Nigeria.
In a statement issued after the conclusion of the congresses, Lawal said newly elected party officials across the state had been duly sworn in following what he characterised as peaceful, transparent and orderly polls.
“The Adamawa state congresses of our great party have come and gone successfully, with elected leaders at all levels administered their oaths of office,” he said. “What we have witnessed is the best of democracy in action.”
Lawal praised party members, officials and aspirants for their conduct throughout the exercise, noting that participants carried themselves “above board” and ensured a calm atmosphere across the state’s 21 local government areas and 226 wards.
He also singled out the state congress committee, led by Gen Ishaya Bauka, for what he described as a credible and transparent process. According to him, the committee’s efforts ensured that the congresses were conducted in an open and accountable manner.
“As zonal chairman and an indigene of Adamawa state, I extend my gratitude to the committee for their honest and just handling of the process. This is an election model I would recommend to INEC,” he said.
While acknowledging that not all party members would be satisfied with the outcomes, Lawal urged those who emerged victorious to see themselves as representatives of the entire party, including those who supported other candidates.
“It is in the nature of politics that there will be winners and losers,” he said. “But whether we win or lose, we must unite to build the party. That unity is the only guarantee of victory in the general elections.”
He called for reconciliation within the party, warning against divisions along ethnic or religious lines, which he said had historically undermined politics in the state.
“We must resist any attempt to balkanise the party. ADC in Adamawa is one family, and we must remain so,” he added.
Looking ahead, Lawal expressed confidence in the party’s electoral prospects, stating that its goal is to produce the governor, three senators, eight members of the House of Representatives and at least 20 members of the state assembly.
He said recent internal assessments suggest the targets are achievable, citing the large turnout and enthusiasm witnessed during the congresses as evidence of growing support.
“The people of Adamawa have embraced ADC. They are waiting for us to present credible candidates, and we have shown that we will not disappoint,” he said, urging members to remain focused and united.