I’m not representing Saraki in ADC — Bolaji Abdullahi

The National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Bolaji Abdullahi, has dismissed claims that he is in the party to protect or advance the political interests of former Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki.

Abdullahi described the speculation as misleading and rooted in falsehood, stressing that his decision to join the ADC and serve as its spokesperson was purely personal and based on merit. 

He said he had not consulted Saraki nor maintained close political contact with him for a long time, including the period before the 2023 general election.

Speaking in Abuja, Abdullahi explained that assumptions linking his political moves to Saraki were recycled narratives that had followed him over the years. 

He recalled similar claims in the past, including when he was removed as Minister of Sports during the Goodluck Jonathan administration, a development many had wrongly attributed to Saraki’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He also addressed speculation that his appointment as ADC’s acting National Publicity Secretary was intended to preserve Saraki’s interests amid the lingering crisis within the PDP. 

According to Abdullahi, such claims were baseless.

“No, not at all. My membership of ADC is entirely my choice. There is nothing like holding ground for anybody. I am not anyone’s ambassador or proxy,” he said.

Abdullahi stated that his motivation for joining the ADC was driven by a desire to work with other patriotic Nigerians to address the country’s deepening socio-economic challenges. 

He said he is committed to helping build the ADC into a credible political platform capable of offering alternative leadership and sustainable governance.

He declined to comment on Saraki’s current political future, noting that his focus remains on strengthening the ADC and contributing meaningfully to national development.

Abdullahi further clarified that while he once worked closely with Saraki, political disagreements and evolving circumstances had shaped their paths over time. 

He maintained that past political sacrifices were guided by personal principles rather than expectations of political rewards.

Amid ongoing uncertainty within the PDP, speculation continues over Saraki’s next political move, with reports suggesting possible realignments either with the APC or within emerging opposition coalitions. 

However, Abdullahi insisted that such developments have no bearing on his role or commitment within the ADC.