Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, has described the opposition coalition’s adoption of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a positive move for Nigeria’s democracy, helping to prevent the country from becoming a one-party state.
Speaking to journalists after casting his vote in the Lagos State local government elections in Surulere on Saturday, Gbajabiamila said:
“It’s a welcome development with the coalition. This isn’t the first time we’re seeing something like this. In every democracy, there must be some level of opposition. Otherwise, we risk becoming a one-party state. But I’m unsure how far it will go.”
Earlier this month, opposition leaders gathered at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja to formally adopt the ADC as their platform for the 2027 elections. Ralph Nwosu handed over the party’s membership card to former Senate President David Mark and former Minister Rauf Aregbesola, who were unveiled as interim national chairman and national secretary, respectively.
Notable figures at the event included former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, ex-governors Nasir El-Rufai and Rotimi Amaechi, as well as political figures such as Dino Melaye, Dele Momodu, Senator Gabriel Suswam, Senator Ireti Kingibe, Emeka Ihedioha, and retired Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar.
Politicians from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and Social Democratic Party (SDP) were also in attendance.
Gbajabiamila, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, cast his vote at Polling Unit 014 at Elizabeth Fowler Memorial High School in the Adeniran Ogunsanya area of Surulere. He arrived at 12:28 p.m. and voted three minutes later, accompanied by supporters and government officials.
Describing the election as peaceful and credible, he expressed concern over the low voter turnout.
“So far, I’ve witnessed a peaceful and fair process,” he said. “But I’m disappointed by the turnout. It appears people still don’t grasp the importance of local government elections, which are arguably more impactful than other levels of government. We must do more to sensitise and educate our people about grassroots governance.”
He added, “There are no reports of violence or disruptions, which is exactly what we hope for in any election.”