The National Leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), Dr. Chike Okogwu, has raised concerns over the silence surrounding the reported joint presidential ticket of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi.
A statement signed by him in Abuja says the absence of official confirmation or denial from both political figures after the announcement has created uncertainty among party members and supporters.
According to the statement, his reaction follows the reported announcement by the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, that Atiku and Amaechi would contest on a joint ticket in the next general election.
It describes the situation as unusual, saying the magnitude of the announcement demands immediate clarity.
“For a political development of such magnitude, one would have expected immediate excitement, confirmation, clarification or at the very least acknowledgment from the principal actors involved,” he states
The statement notes that the silence has raised several questions about the status of the reported arrangement.
“Has the ticket truly been agreed upon by all parties involved? Was the announcement premature? Are consultations still ongoing behind the scenes?” Okogwu stresses.
According to him, uncertainty over such a crucial matter could fuel unnecessary speculation within the party and among the wider public.
“Politics abhors a vacuum. Whenever there is silence where clarity is expected, speculation rushes in to fill the gap,” he states.
According to the statement, Dr. Okogwu stresses that the ADC, which many Nigerians see as an alternative political platform, cannot afford ambiguity over its presidential ticket.
“The party today carries the hopes of millions of Nigerians searching for a credible alternative. It cannot afford avoidable ambiguity on issues as fundamental as its presidential ticket,” he adds.
The statement also cautions against attempts to impose outcomes through pressure or political maneuvering, warning that such actions could threaten party unity.
“Nobody should attempt to impose outcomes through media pressure, elite consensus or backroom maneuvering. Unity built on coercion is fragile,” he states.
According to the statement, Okogwu calls on party leaders to maintain transparency and fairness in handling ongoing consultations, while urging supporters to avoid divisive rhetoric and speculation.
