In this interview with The Punch, the founder and pioneer National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, Ralph Nwosu, explained that prior to the current developments, the party had experienced internal challenges, which he attributed to Nafi’u Bala.
When asked whether “leaving it open” meant adopting direct primaries, he explained that the party was considering two approaches.
He said the African Democratic Congress was exploring a consensus arrangement where all stakeholders agree on a candidate. However, where consensus is not possible, the party would conduct direct primaries, and whoever wins would become the party’s standard-bearer.
He added that some aspirants had already indicated that if they did not win the primary, they would remain in the party and support whoever emerged victorious.
He said, “Whoever wins becomes the standard-bearer of the party.
“I’ve heard some of the candidates say that if they don’t win, they’re in the party and would support whoever wins.
“Rotimi Amaechi, Atiku Abubakar, and Peter Obi have said that. We await Rabiu Kwankwaso to also say that publicly. But the day the document was signed, that was what we put forward.”
He stated that the party maintained a clear position on an open ticket system and transparency, noting that this principle was widely agreed upon within the coalition.
He explained that part of the consensus was that a figure known for integrity and transparency would be well suited to oversee the process, which, in their view, informed the choice of David Mark as chairman of the arrangement.
