The African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Presidency have engaged in a public exchange amid an internal crisis within the opposition party. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Information and Strategy, posted a comment on X @aonanuga1956 that read: "Just continue your illegality, the lawless ADC. The dog that […]..." The post, though partially redacted, drew immediate reaction from the party. ADC National Publicity Secretary, Olumide Akintola, responded by calling Onanuga's statement "reckless and unbecoming of a presidential aide." Akintola stated that the ADC remains committed to due process and democratic principles in resolving its leadership challenges. He emphasized that the party operates within the framework of its constitution and the laws governing political parties in Nigeria. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has not issued any directive invalidating the party's internal processes. Onanuga has not issued a formal retraction or clarification of his post.
A presidential aide publicly mocking an opposition party undermines the neutrality expected of government officials. Onanuga's comment, directed at a party legally recognized by INEC, suggests a shrinking space for dissent. When figures in the presidential circle label political opponents "lawless" without legal backing, it normalizes hostility toward opposition voices. This does not clarify ADC's internal issues but amplifies concerns about the tone of political engagement from the presidency.
