ADC Youth Wing Demands Probe Into Alleged Primary Election Irregularities

The Youth Wing of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called for an independent investigation into alleged irregularities in the party’s primary elections across 23 states, following complaints from aspirants and party members.

The ADC National Youth Leader, Comrade Balarabe Rufai, who made the demand during a national press conference on Wednesday, said that, if proven, the allegations could undermine confidence in the party’s internal democratic processes.

Rufai alleged that the youth wing had received petitions and documentary evidence from affected aspirants claiming that some party officials were involved in financial inducements aimed at altering candidate nominations.

He said formal complaints had already been submitted to the party’s Legal Department by the party-constituted Appeal Committee and aggrieved aspirants. Still, he expressed concern over what he described as the failure to address the issues.

“Behind every petition is a person who invested hope, time, resources and the confidence of their supporters in this process. Their disappointment should concern every leader who believes in justice and fairness,” Rufai said.

The youth leader said unresolved complaints could weaken party unity ahead of the general elections, urging the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) to establish an independent review panel to investigate all allegations.

He called for disciplinary action against any official found culpable after a fair investigation, adding that cases involving possible criminal conduct should be referred to relevant law enforcement agencies.

“Every honest official should welcome an independent review because transparency strengthens institutions, while silence only fuels suspicion,” he said.

Rufai urged aggrieved aspirants across the country to submit petitions, delegate tallies, video evidence and other relevant documents to the office of the National Youth Leader for review.

He maintained that the ADC Youth Wing remained committed to the party’s ideals, while expressing support for the party’s presidential ticket and all validly nominated candidates.

“No political party can ask Nigerians to trust its commitment to democracy if it is unwilling to defend democracy within its own house,” he said.

Rufai further called on the party leadership to take decisive action, warning that failure to address the alleged grievances could raise questions about its commitment to transparency and accountability.

He added that the ADC Youth Wing Legal Advisers, led by Barrister I.U. Wali and Barrister Juliet Laba would work with affected aspirants to resolve their complaints.