Ogun ADC Urges Members to Prioritize Dialogue Over Litigation

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ogun State has called on its members to refrain from litigation in resolving internal disputes, warning that ongoing legal battles could undermine the party’s strength.

In a statement released on Sunday, the party’s Publicity Secretary, Olumide Onabajo, expressed deep concern over what he termed the "disturbing trend" of resorting to courts for issues that could be settled through internal mechanisms.

Onabajo alleged that some recent entrants to the party from other political organizations might be instigating divisions and prolonging conflicts through legal means.

“Our party is becoming a formidable force in Ogun State, and internal strife could distract us from preparing for the upcoming elections,” he declared.

He emphasized that disagreements should not lead to court actions and encouraged members to engage in dialogue and reconciliation instead.

“The courts should not be seen as alternative meeting rooms for political parties,” he said. “Litigation should not serve as a weapon to destabilize the party or exhaust its resources.”

Onabajo referenced Section 83(5) of the Electoral Act 2026, which limits the jurisdiction of courts over internal party matters, highlighting the potential financial penalties for inappropriate legal actions.

He clarified that the appeal for dialogue is not an attempt to deny anyone their right to seek justice but rather a call to utilize the party’s internal resolution mechanisms first.

The ADC spokesperson urged the judiciary to carefully assess political disputes to determine if they are genuinely justiciable or merely internal disagreements masquerading as legal cases.

He reiterated the importance of reconciliation, stating, “Differences of opinion and competing ambitions are normal, but they should not evolve into permanent conflicts.”

Onabajo's message was clear: all members, leaders, and stakeholders must prioritize the ADC’s collective interests over individual ambitions.

“Let us sit together, talk, and reconcile. We must place the ADC above personal goals,” he said.

The party remains open to welcoming genuine members from other political parties, but Onabajo warned that membership should not be a license for internal destabilization.

He concluded by stressing that unnecessary court actions consume time and resources that should be directed toward mobilization and preparation for the 2027 elections.