“You Must Rise Above Personal Ambition – Abdullahi, ADC’s Nat. Pub. Sec. Tells It’s Leaders”

By Ayodele Oni

Apparently referring to internal confusion within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over presidential ticket, National Publicity secretary of the party, Bolaji Abdullahi, has said Nigerians are ready for a new political direction, but warned that leaders of the party must rise above personal ambition and internal divisions if the party is to meet that expectation.

Abdullahi made the remarks in his closing address at the launch of his book, The Loyalist, held on Tuesday at the Barcelona Hotel, Abuja.

Some leaders of ADC, including former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, former Rivers governor, Rotimi Amaechi, have been itching to emerge as the candidate of ADC during next year’s elections.

Abdullahi said public interactions have convinced him that Nigerians are prepared for change and are looking to the ADC for leadership.

“I think Nigerians are ready for us, but I don’t think we are ready yet — we the leaders. If only thing this book launch has achieved is bringing all the leaders of the ADC together in one place, then that alone is enough.”

He said many Nigerians openly encourage ADC leaders to put aside differences and work collectively for national renewal.

“People recognise me as one of the leaders of the ADC and they stop me to encourage us to do our best to save Nigeria. That means we must brace up and do better,” he added.

Abdullahi urged party leaders to place the broader interests of the ADC and the nation above personal ambition, stressing that unity and shared purpose would determine the party’s readiness for national leadership.

He described “The Loyalist” as a reflection of Nigeria’s political journey, focusing on the fragile relationships between godfathers and godsons, and argued that political mentorship is not inherently harmful, but must be grounded in values and a clear philosophy.

The book launch doubled as a symbolic gathering of ADC leaders, reinforcing Abdullahi’s call for cohesion as the party positions itself for future political contests.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar attended the event as the Special Guest of Honour, while the National Chairman of the ADC, Senator David Mark, served as Chairman of the occasion.

Former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi, presented the book, while it was reviewed by Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed. Former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal, formally launched the book.

Other prominent Nigerians at the event included Mr Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Liyel Imoke, Rauf Aregbesola, Emeka Ihedioha, and several other political leaders from across the country.