The Handshake Movement (THM) has urged presidential aspirants on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, to adhere strictly to democratic rules and party processes in the contest for the party’s presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, is also among those believed to be angling for the presidential ticket of the ADC.

In a statement by its National Secretary, Engr. Chinedu Okpalanma, the group said unity among aspirants within the party was crucial to strengthening the ADC as a credible political alternative capable of rescuing Nigeria’s democracy.

The movement noted that Nigeria currently faces deepening economic hardship, rising insecurity, unemployment and weakening institutions, which it said have eroded public confidence in governance.

According to the group, the situation has left many Nigerians feeling excluded from governance and uncertain about the country’s future.

THM also warned against the gradual erosion of democratic norms, stressing that democracies often weaken through the shrinking of political alternatives, manipulation of institutions and fragmentation of opposition platforms.

It said the ADC had begun to emerge as a viable political platform for Nigerians seeking credible alternatives and national renewal.

The group therefore urged all presidential aspirants within the party to approach the contest with patriotism and a sense of national responsibility.

“Personal ambition must never be allowed to fracture the very platform that millions of Nigerians now see as a possible vehicle for national rescue,” the statement said.

The movement stressed that the ADC presidential primary must be conducted in a transparent and democratic manner capable of strengthening the party, building public confidence and producing a candidate who can command the support of all aspirants.

THM also cautioned Nigerians against the politics of ethnic and religious division, urging citizens to focus instead on competence, integrity and leadership capacity.

The group disclosed plans to initiate consultations with presidential aspirants on the ADC platform as part of efforts to encourage unity and build a broad democratic coalition ahead of the 2027 elections.

It added that the movement would contribute policy ideas, grassroots mobilisation and strategic engagement aimed at strengthening the ADC as a viable alternative for national leadership.(The Guardian)

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