By BONIFACE AKARAH

The All Democratic Alliance (ADA), has distanced itself from comments made by its National Secretary, Umar Ardo, regarding the registration of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In a statement issued on May 4, 2026, and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Leye Igbabo, the party said Ardo’s remarks were personal and did not reflect its official position.

“The National Working Committee of ADA wishes to state categorically that Dr. Ardo spoke in his personal capacity,” the statement said.

ADA acknowledged the NDC as a duly registered political party, noting that it remains “the only viable alternative platform currently available to Nigerians” amid dissatisfaction with existing parties.

“The NDC is today a duly registered political party by INEC… and remains the only viable alternative platform currently available to Nigerians,” the party stated.

The group said it would not undermine other opposition platforms while pursuing its own registration.

“As democrats, we cannot be seen to be pulling down the only standing opposition house while we are still building our own,” it added.

ADA emphasised the need for unity among opposition groups ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning against internal conflicts.

“The 2027 election is too important for opposition voices to cannibalize one another,” the statement noted.

The party also clarified that it would continue to pursue its registration through lawful means without challenging the legitimacy of other parties.

“While ADA will continue to lawfully engage INEC and the courts to secure our registration, we shall not do so by attacking the legitimacy of other opposition parties,” it said.

ADA assured the NDC of its goodwill, expressing openness to future collaboration.

“We therefore wish to assure the NDC that our party bears it no ill will,” the statement said, adding that it looks forward to “robust opposition collaboration post-2027.”

The party concluded by warning against the emergence of a one-party system, stating, “The enemy of Nigeria’s democracy is not NDC. The enemy is one-party rule.”