Abuja, Nigeria – July 2025
In a move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions and addressing the growing concerns of citizens, also Nigerians in Diaspora, the African Democratic Congress Diaspora Network (ADC-DN) has initiated a high-level strategic dialogue with Professor Sam Amadi, Director of the Abuja School of Social & Political Thoughts. The introductory meeting, which took place at the lobby of Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Nigeria’s capital city, focused on two of the most pressing national priorities: vote security and electoral reform.
For millions of Nigerians, both at home and in the diaspora, the credibility of elections and the integrity of the electoral process are increasingly under scrutiny. Issues such as voter suppression, electoral violence, manipulated results, and a growing lack of public trust in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) continue to undermine the democratic space. As part of its renewed commitment under the new political coalition, ADC-DN is taking bold steps to ensure that these challenges are addressed through informed dialogue, policy advocacy, and institutional collaboration with both national and international partners.
Speaking with the media after the brief engagement, Hon. Kenneth C. Gbandi, leader of ADC-DN, expressed the Network’s readiness to partner with reputable institutions such as the Abuja School of Social & Political Thoughts, an intellectual hub led by Prof. Amadi, a foremost governance expert with deep insight into electoral justice and democratic development, and Anthony Ubani of FixPolitics, to collaborate on political education and systemic reform. The aim of these collaborations is to join hands to develop innovative frameworks for INEC reform, enhance voter education, and support policy-driven solutions that protect the vote and promote democratic accountability.
“Vote security and electoral reform are not just technical issues; they are existential matters for Nigeria’s democratic survival,” Hon. Gbandi emphasized. “Our partnership with Prof. Amadi and similar institutions will be a vital step toward building diaspora and international trust, and fostering a political culture rooted in transparency, competence, and credibility.”
This engagement is part of ADC-DN’s broader strategy to ensure that the diaspora remains a critical voice and active stakeholder in shaping Nigeria’s political future. Through sustained dialogues, strategic alliances, and knowledge-driven policy interventions, ADC-DN is determined to contribute meaningfully to a new era of democratic transformation ahead of the 2027 general elections. The Abuja meeting marks a promising beginning in the effort to restore public confidence after the 2023 elections and sets the stage for a robust, long-term collaboration between ADC-DN and leading policy institutions committed to national renewal. Hon. Gbandi revealed that further meetings will follow.
