Rep Leke Abejide (ADC-Kogi) has revealed that internal leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) forced his decision to resign from the party.
Abejide, who represents Yagba Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, made this known while addressing journalists in Abuja on Friday, describing his exit as both painful and necessary.
According to him, the move is aimed at advancing his political career and attracting more dividends of democracy to his constituents, noting that he is set to join what he described as a ‘mainstream party.’
The lawmaker, a former national leader of the ADC, alleged that the party had been overtaken by individuals he described as political outsiders.
‘Nine months ago, the party was unlawfully hijacked by politicians who were chased out of political parties they could not manage,’ he said.
Abejide explained that the lingering uncertainty within the party prompted him to seek legal redress at a Federal High Court, in line with his constitutional right to freedom of association.
He noted that he played a significant role in building the ADC into a nationally recognised platform with representation at both national and state assembly levels, adding that he also personally funded the party in his capacity as national leader.
The lawmaker said he has now relinquished his leadership position to the current National Chairman, Nafiu Bala, wishing him well in his ongoing legal battles.
He lamented that the party’s founding vision had been derailed by what he termed ‘hijackers.’
‘Our mission and vision were to build a party Nigeria could be proud of, but that has been truncated,’ he said.
Addressing his supporters in Kogi State and beyond, Abejide said his political decisions align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
‘I have consulted widely with my political leaders and supporters. After prayers and reflection, I have decided to change my party in line with my vision and mission,’ he stated.