Publisher of Ovation magazine and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dele Momodu, has cautioned the party against internal discord, warning that aggressive conduct and attempts at imposition could derail the opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Momodu spoke amid rising agitation within the ADC, largely from supporters of Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, who are demanding that he be handed the party’s presidential ticket.

Some allies of Obi, including political economist Prof. Pat Utomi, have openly insisted that the former Anambra State governor must contest the presidency and not accept a vice-presidential slot. Activist Aisha Yesufu and the Obidient Movement have echoed similar sentiments.

In a post on his X (formerly Twitter) account titled “My Candid Advice to ADC: Avoid Another Wike Scenario,” Momodu warned that no individual or group should be allowed to destabilise the party through pressure or entitlement.

He recalled that the ADC was voluntarily adopted by opposition leaders as a coalition platform to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), stressing that participation was never forced on any group.

According to him, the party was founded on democratic principles and must not tolerate conduct capable of undermining unity.

“I was present when leaders of opposition parties met in Abuja last year to adopt ADC as a common platform,” Momodu said.

“No one was compelled to join. The conveners promised openness, internal democracy and discipline.”

Momodu expressed confidence in the party’s leadership, particularly the appointment of former Senate President David Mark as chairman, saying his presence should guarantee order and discipline.

However, he lamented what he described as recent displays of aggression and unruly behaviour by some groups within the coalition.

“How can a coalition succeed when some people insist they must be handed the top ticket through donation or coronation, without election or persuasion?” he asked.

He warned that unchecked disputes could plunge the ADC into a crisis similar to what engulfed the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), referencing the influence once wielded by Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

“This was how PDP lost control of its internal affairs until it became too late,” Momodu warned.

He urged the ADC leadership to act decisively to enforce discipline and preserve unity, adding that the party must be built on mutual respect rather than chaos.

“ADC should be a party of love, not a Fuji house of commotion,” he said.