Former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, has criticised the recent national convention organised by a faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the gathering as disorganised, chaotic, and lacking credibility.
In a statement posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, Fani-Kayode said the event exposed what he termed deep internal disunity and poor coordination within the faction, raising questions about its readiness for future political contests.
According to the former minister, his observations of the convention painted a picture of confusion and inadequate planning, with participants allegedly struggling with both logistical and organisational challenges.
“I watched a faction of the ADC conducting what they described as their party convention a few days ago and it was pitiful,” he wrote.
Fani-Kayode claimed that the venue was overcrowded and uncomfortable, alleging that basic facilities such as proper ventilation and air-conditioning were either insufficient or absent. He said attendees appeared visibly distressed, describing the atmosphere as tense and disorderly.
“I saw an overcrowded hall filled with hot, sweaty men and women,” he stated, adding that participants appeared agitated throughout the proceedings.
He further alleged that the convention was marked by internal disagreements among members, which he said escalated into open confrontations during the event.
“They sweated profusely, argued loudly amongst themselves, broke into fisticuffs,” he claimed, suggesting that the situation reflected deeper divisions within the faction.
In his account, Fani-Kayode also described what he characterised as an awkward moment involving an elderly participant at the event. According to him, the individual mistakenly referenced another political party while addressing the gathering, highlighting what he implied was confusion among attendees.
“He took the microphone and screamed ‘APC’ before realising he was actually in an ADC convention,” Fani-Kayode said.
Beyond the alleged incidents, the former minister criticised the overall tone and direction of the gathering, questioning whether the faction possesses the structure and unity required to function as a serious political force.
“Forgive me for saying so, but this was indeed a strange gathering who have no sense of purpose, unity or direction,” he stated.
Fani-Kayode went further to dismiss the political relevance of the faction, arguing that the event did not reflect the standard expected of a credible political party preparing for national elections.
“What we witnessed was more of a gathering of people craving a return to power rather than the convention of a legitimate and serious political party,” he added.
He also referenced remarks previously attributed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who reportedly described the gathering as a “street convention.” Fani-Kayode aligned with that assessment, suggesting that the event lacked the decorum and organisation typically associated with established political platforms.
The criticism comes amid growing political activity and realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with various parties and factions seeking to consolidate their structures and expand their influence.
Analysts say internal cohesion and organisational capacity are key factors that determine the strength of political parties, particularly as election cycles approach. Public disputes and allegations of disunity can undermine confidence among supporters and stakeholders.
While Fani-Kayode’s remarks reflect a strongly critical perspective, there has been no immediate official response from the ADC faction involved in the convention. Political observers note that such criticisms are not uncommon in Nigeria’s competitive political landscape, where rival parties and figures often engage in sharp exchanges.
Despite the criticism, the ADC remains one of several opposition parties seeking to position itself as an alternative platform ahead of the next election cycle. Efforts to build alliances, attract new members, and strengthen internal structures are expected to intensify in the coming months.
Fani-Kayode, however, expressed skepticism about the faction’s prospects, concluding that it lacks the capacity to make significant political impact.
“Bottom line? The ADC ain’t going nowhere!” he said.
His comments add to the ongoing debate about the state of opposition politics in Nigeria, as stakeholders continue to assess the viability of different parties and coalitions in shaping the country’s political future.
As preparations for 2027 gather momentum, issues of party unity, leadership credibility, and organisational efficiency are likely to remain at the forefront of political discourse.
