By By Elizabeth Ugbo
A political group has urged Nigerians to reject Atiku Abubakar and African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidates in the next general elections, alleging that the party’s leadership has failed to pay staff for over a year. The group criticised the National Working Committee, led by Senator David Mark and Secretary Rauf Aregbesola, over the alleged salary arrears. It argued that the situation raises concerns about the party’s commitment to workers’ welfare and its readiness to govern Nigeria.
ADC Leadership Faces Criticism Over Unpaid Salaries
The group described the alleged failure to pay party workers for more than 12 months as unacceptable. It argued that employees who report to work daily deserve their salaries to meet basic needs.
Furthermore, the group accused ADC leaders of making promises to Nigerians while allegedly neglecting their own workforce. It said the situation exposes what it considers a gap between the party’s public promises and its internal practices.
According to the group, a political party must demonstrate accountability and responsibility before seeking to govern the country.
Group Questions Atiku Abubakar’s Commitment to Workers
The group also criticised Atiku Abubakar, whom it identified as the ADC’s presidential candidate. It alleged that his businesses had faced complaints over delayed salaries and other staff benefits.
The statement specifically referenced Gotel Communication and other businesses associated with Atiku. It claimed that some employees had experienced months without pay and had staged protests over outstanding salaries.
Consequently, the group argued that these allegations raise questions about the former vice president’s commitment to workers’ welfare. However, the claims remain allegations made by the group.
Aregbesola’s Record in Osun State Under Scrutiny
The group also questioned Rauf Aregbesola’s record during his eight-year tenure as governor of Osun State. It accused his administration of mismanaging state finances and failing to meet workers’ salary obligations.
According to the statement, Aregbesola’s government introduced half-salary and quarter-salary payments for workers during periods of financial difficulty. The group also alleged that pensioners endured prolonged delays in receiving their entitlements.
Furthermore, it claimed that some pensioners died after struggling to afford basic necessities. The statement used these allegations to question Aregbesola’s suitability for his current role within the ADC.
Nigerians Urged to Reject ADC Candidates
The group said it was not surprised by the reported salary concerns within the party. It argued that the allegations against ADC leaders reflect a broader concern about their ability to manage public resources.
Therefore, it urged Nigerians, particularly workers, to reject the ADC, Atiku Abubakar and the party’s candidates in the next general elections.
The group maintained that any political party seeking national leadership must demonstrate responsible financial management and respect for its workforce.
It concluded that Nigerians should assess political parties based on their records, leadership decisions and treatment of employees before making electoral choices.
The ADC and the individuals mentioned should have an opportunity to respond to the allegations raised in the statement.
