Picks ADC membership card, declares new era of youth inclusion
Rep Abdussamad Dasuki, member representing Tambuwal/Kebbe Federal Constituency of Sokoto State, has raised concerns over the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), stating that developments under its leadership could pose challenges to Nigeria’s multi-party democracy, alleging that the commission was working in ways that may limit opposition parties.
Dasuki stated this on Wednesday when he picked up his membership card of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) at his Dogon Daji/Salah Ward, Tambuwal LGA of Sokoto. The event witnessed a turnout of supporters, including members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other parties who formally defected to the ADC.
Addressing the crowd, Rep Dasuki said recent developments in the country’s political landscape point to what he described as efforts to weaken opposition voices and undermine democratic principles.
He cited the decision of INEC not to recognise the leadership of the ADC as a concern, which he believes could affect opposition dynamics and democratic plurality.
According to him, the move could weaken opposition structures and the multi-party system, while strengthening the position of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
“This is not just about one political party or one leadership dispute,” Dasuki said. “It is about the soul of our democracy. What we are witnessing is a calculated attempt to silence opposition, shrink the democratic space and impose a one-party system on a diverse and vibrant nation.”
He warned that such actions, if left unchecked, could reverse democratic gains made over the years.
“The refusal to recognise leadership within opposition parties is not accidental. It is part of a broader plan to weaken alternative voices and ensure that only one party remains viable ahead of 2027,” he stated.
Calling on citizens, civil society organisations and the international community to remain vigilant, Dasuki urged stakeholders to defend democratic institutions and uphold the rule of law.
“We must rise collectively to resist any attempt to derail our democracy. Nigeria belongs to all of us, not to a select few seeking to monopolise power. The future of our nation depends on our ability to protect and preserve a truly competitive and inclusive political system,” he added.
Dasuki explained that his decision to join the ADC was driven by his desire to collaborate with others committed to addressing the country’s socio-economic and political challenges.
He called on the people of Tambuwal/Kebbe Federal Constituency, as well as the wider population of Sokoto State and Nigeria, to remain steadfast as a new political journey begins. He said that the move was aimed at contributing to efforts to build a more prosperous and democratic society.
Dasuki emphasised his commitment to advancing a youth-focused agenda that will ensure greater inclusion of young people in party affairs and in local, state and national governance. He described the ADC as a party that prioritises youth participation and offers a platform for young people to play active roles in shaping the future of the nation.
At the gathering, Rep Dasuki, alongside party leaders, formally received the new defectors into the ADC. The event also drew the participation of numerous youth groups from across the constituency and the state. In their remarks, the youth groups said their decision to embrace the ADC was influenced by concerns over insecurity and economic conditions affecting residents.
It would be recalled that Rep Dasuki formally resigned from the PDP on March 15, 2026, through a letter addressed to the Chairman of his Dogon Daji/Salah Ward. In the letter, he cited the protracted leadership crisis within the party, which he said had weakened its capacity to function effectively as an opposition platform and limited its ability to provide organised opposition necessary for strengthening democracy.
