It has become increasingly necessary to address the growing narrative that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is responsible for the internal crisis currently rocking the African Democratic Congress (ADC). This narrative is not only misleading but also a reflection of a deeper problem within Nigeria’s opposition politics—an unwillingness to accept responsibility.
The truth is simple: the crisis within the ADC did not begin with President Tinubu, nor is it being orchestrated by him.
Before the recent wave of defections from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the ADC already had underlying leadership disputes. These issues were neither hidden nor ambiguous. They were part of the party’s internal reality, known to those who cared to investigate.
Yet, rather than taking the time to understand these dynamics, the new entrants rushed to assume control. They attempted to impose a new leadership structure without first resolving the existing conflicts within the party. This approach was not only hasty but fundamentally flawed.
What should have been done was clear: conduct a thorough assessment of the party’s internal structure, identify areas of conflict, and convene all stakeholders for a comprehensive dialogue. Such a process would have fostered unity and created a solid foundation for progress.
Instead, what we see today is a fragmented party struggling under the weight of avoidable internal contradictions.
Blaming President Tinubu for this situation is, at best, an excuse. At worst, it is a deliberate attempt to distract from the failures of those who neglected the basic principles of political organization.
A strong and virile opposition is essential for any democracy. But strength is not built on excuses. It is built on strategy, discipline, and accountability.
If the opposition hopes to present itself as a credible alternative to the administration of President Tinubu, it must first demonstrate the capacity to manage its own affairs effectively. Anything less only weakens its position and undermines public confidence.
Nigeria deserves an opposition that is proactive, not reactive; responsible, not accusatory; and solutions-driven, not excuse-driven.
Until that standard is met, narratives blaming President Tinubu for every internal crisis will continue to ring hollow.
By Hon. Bayo Shodiya, Indianapolis, US.
Convener, Nigeria Rising Initiative (NRI)
