The chief of staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, has advised Leke Abejide, the lawmaker representing Yagba federal constituency in Kogi, to stay in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and defend his political structure.
The party has been facing internal crises since July 2025, when an opposition coalition assumed control of its leadership. Nafiu Bala, a former deputy national chairman, had alleged that the leadership under David Mark was not legitimately constituted.
At the party’s recent convention, the faction led by David Mark announced the expulsion of Abejide and several others, including Kingsley Temitope, Obinna Norman, Kennedy Odiong, and Stella Chukwuma, over alleged anti-party activities.
Responding to his suspension, Abejide described the gathering as a ‘suya’ convention, insisting it was “null and void.”
Speaking during Abejide’s birthday celebration, Gbajabiamila praised the legislator’s political journey and resilience, noting that his repeated electoral victories under a relatively lesser-known party highlight his strength.
“For a man to contest in a place like Kogi, under a relatively unknown party, and win back-to-back elections, it tells you who that man is,” he said.
He added that Abejide not only secured re-election but also contributed to expanding the party’s reach by attracting other candidates.
Describing him as “a committed party man” and “a fighter”, Gbajabiamila urged him not to leave the party despite ongoing tensions.
“My charge to you is to stay in that same party. Fight them. Scatter them. Hold on to your party. Do not abandon them. We like what you are doing. Hold on to your party. Do not abandon it,” he said.
He further encouraged the lawmaker to remain focused and pursue his ambitions within the party.
“Continue what you are doing. Win your election there. Nobody can take your party away from you,” he added.