‘Fight them, scatter them’ — Gbajabiamila urges Leke Abejide to remain in ADC

Femi Gbajabiamila, chief of staff (CoS) to President Bola Tinubu, has urged Leke Abejide, member representing the Yagba federal constituency in Kogi, to remain in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and defend his political base.

Since July 2025, when an opposition coalition took over the ADC’s leadership, the party has been embroiled in internal disputes, with Nafiu Bala, a former deputy national chairman, alleging that the ex-Senate President David Mark-led leadership of the party was illegally appointed.

Last week at the party’s convention, the David Mark-led faction expelled Abejide and other members of the party, including Kingsley Temitope, Obinna Norman, Kennedy Odiong, and Stella Chukwuma, over the allegation of anti-party activities.

While reacting to his suspension, Abejide described the event as a ‘suya’ convention, adding that it was “null and void.”

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Speaking at Abejide’s birthday celebration, Gbajabiamila commended the lawmaker’s political trajectory and resilience.

He said Abejide’s electoral victories under a relatively less prominent political party demonstrate his strength as a politician.

“For a man to contest in a place like Kogi, under a relatively unknown party, and win back-to-back elections, it tells you who that man is,” he said.

The CoS said Abejide did not only secure re-election but also helped expand the party’s influence by bringing in other candidates.

Gbajabiamila described the lawmaker as “a committed party man” and “a fighter”, urging him not to defect despite potential pressures.