A fresh political controversy has erupted following the circulation of a viral video showing the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, openly advising a leading figure of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Leke Abejide, to remain within the opposition party and aggressively confront its internal leadership struggles.
The video, which has since gone viral across social media platforms, captures Gbajabiamila in what appears to be a candid conversation with Abejide, during which he urged the ADC chieftain not to defect from the party despite the ongoing crises that have plagued its leadership structure in recent months.
In the footage, Gbajabiamila is heard praising Abejide’s resilience and commitment, describing him as a “fighter” and a loyal party man. He then proceeded to encourage him to stay within the ADC and confront those he believes are undermining the party’s stability.
“I know you to be a committed party man. I know you to be a fighter,” Gbajabiamila said in the video. “So please, my charge to you is to stay in that same ADC. Fight them. Scatter them! Hold on to your party. Do not abandon it. We like what you are doing. Continue.”
The remarks have since drawn widespread attention, particularly because of Gbajabiamila’s position within the current administration. As a top aide to the president, his comments are being interpreted by critics as a sign of possible interference in the affairs of an opposition party.
During the exchange, Gbajabiamila also dismissed suggestions that Abejide should consider leaving the ADC to join another political platform. He insisted that the party rightfully belongs to Abejide, citing his contributions to its growth and survival.
“Don’t mind them,” he said, referencing unnamed political figures who had reportedly advised Abejide to defect. “The party is yours—you built it with your sweat and your money. Stay there, win your election, and continue what you are doing.”
He further encouraged Abejide to remain steadfast and, if necessary, pursue legal avenues to assert control over the party amid its internal disputes. The reference to court battles is particularly significant, given the ongoing legal tussles surrounding the leadership of the ADC.
The party has in recent times been embroiled in a series of crises, including factional disputes, leadership contests, and litigation over its structure and direction ahead of the 2027 general elections. These internal challenges have raised concerns about the party’s cohesion and its ability to function effectively as a credible opposition force.
However, Gbajabiamila’s comments have added a new dimension to the situation, triggering a wave of reactions from political observers, opposition figures, and members of the public.
Many critics have expressed outrage over what they perceive as an inappropriate intervention by a senior government official in the internal affairs of an opposition party. Some have gone as far as accusing the administration of attempting to exploit internal divisions within the ADC to weaken it politically ahead of the next electoral cycle.
On social media, the video has sparked intense debate, with users questioning the implications of the remarks for Nigeria’s democratic process. While some defended the comments as informal political advice, others argued that they reflect a broader pattern of strategic manoeuvring aimed at destabilising opposition platforms.
Political analysts note that the optics of the situation are particularly sensitive, given the importance of maintaining a clear boundary between governing authorities and opposition entities in a democratic system. Any perception of undue influence, they argue, could undermine public confidence in the fairness of the political environment.
Supporters of the ruling administration, however, have downplayed the controversy, suggesting that the conversation may have been taken out of context or exaggerated for political effect. They argue that political actors often engage in cross-party interactions and that such exchanges should not necessarily be interpreted as coordinated interference.
Nonetheless, the incident has reignited discussions about the role of political power in shaping party dynamics and the extent to which ruling party figures should engage with opposition stakeholders.
As the 2027 elections approach, the ADC is expected to play a significant role within the broader opposition landscape, particularly amid ongoing coalition talks and efforts to build a unified front against the ruling party. The internal stability of the party, therefore, remains a critical factor in determining its political relevance.
For now, the viral video has intensified scrutiny on both Gbajabiamila and the ADC, with many awaiting further clarification or response from the individuals involved. Whether the controversy will have lasting political consequences remains to be seen, but it has undoubtedly added to the already charged atmosphere surrounding Nigeria’s evolving political scene.
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