Disagreement Will Make ADC Stronger – Chieftain

In Edo State, Nigeria, a prominent figure within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Fawaz Muhammad, has offered a candid assessment of the party's internal dynamics. Speaking to PUNCH correspondent, Muhammad, who is also vying for a House of Assembly seat, acknowledged that disagreements are a natural part of any growing political organization. He characterized the current challenges within the ADC, both at the national and Edo State levels, as stemming from issues of coordination, communication, inclusion, and infiltration.

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The African Democratic Congress is a party I believe in deeply, and like any growing family, we have our moments of disagreement. What we are seeing, both at the national level and in Edo State, are largely issues of coordination, communication, inclusion, and infiltration.

Muhammad's perspective emphasizes a commitment to addressing these challenges with sincerity and unity, from the grassroots to the national leadership. This internal focus, however, is balanced with a broader view of the political landscape. He highlighted the critical role of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in shaping the democratic space, urging the party in power to foster an environment of fairness and avoid actions that could destabilize the polity or unduly pressure opposition parties.

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As the party in power, there is a responsibility to promote fairness, avoid actions that may overheat the polity, and allow opposition parties to operate freely without undue pressure or interference. Democracy thrives where there is healthy opposition, not suppression.

Furthermore, Muhammad underscored the importance of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in maintaining its constitutional mandate as an impartial umpire. He stressed that public confidence in the transparency and fairness of electoral processes is paramount for Nigeria's democratic stability. From the vantage point of the ADC in Edo State, these internal and external political dynamics are crucial for the party's growth and for the health of Nigerian democracy as a whole. The Nigerian political scene, often characterized by intense competition and complex alliances, requires such forthright analysis to navigate towards progress.

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Nigerians must have confidence that electoral 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.