Nasir El-Rufai, the former Governor of Kaduna State, has announced that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) will not implement zoning or other consensus arrangement in its presidential primary for the upcoming general elections.
In an interview with Trust Tv, El-Rufai stated that the party is dedicated to executing primaries that are free, fair, and transparent, ensuring that all aspirants are afforded equal opportunities to compete without coercion, imposition, or compelled withdrawal.
El-Rufai revealed that the ADC leadership is presently developing its manifesto and policy framework, while also engaging potential presidential, gubernatorial, and other candidates to foster internal cohesion prior to the primaries.
“At the highest echelon, we are formulating our manifesto and our platform.” He stated, “We are also endeavouring to unite our presidential, gubernatorial, and other aspirants to establish a process that ensures free and fair primaries.”
He stated that the party has determined that no zoning arrangement will be implemented and that no candidate will be obligated to withdraw in favour of another.
“There will be no zoning, no agreement, and no coercion for anyone to resign.” El-Rufai asserted that all individuals will have the chance to compete, and the victor will get unanimous support.
He refuted assertions that the ADC lacked grassroots support, asserting that the party’s expanding influence is seen nationwide.
“If you doubt the ADC’s grassroots support, request members of the National Assembly to visit their constituencies without the presence of soldiers and police for protection,” he stated.