Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, has welcomed the recent adoption of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) by Nigeria’s major opposition coalition, describing it as a positive step for the country’s democratic growth.

Speaking to journalists after casting his vote during Saturday’s local government elections in Surulere, Lagos, Gbajabiamila said a strong opposition is essential to prevent the rise of a one-party state.

“It’s a welcome development with the coalition. It’s not the first time we’re seeing this. In every democracy, there must be some level of opposition. Otherwise, we risk slipping into a one-party system,” he noted.

Earlier in July, several prominent opposition leaders formally adopted the ADC as their platform ahead of the 2027 general elections. The party’s longtime chairman, Ralph Nwosu, handed over leadership to former Senate President David Mark and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, who were introduced as interim national chairman and secretary, respectively.

The high-profile event drew attendance from key political figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, ex-governors Nasir El-Rufai and Rotimi Amaechi, as well as Dino Melaye, Dele Momodu, Ireti Kingibe, Solomon Dalung, Emeka Ihedioha, Gabriel Suswam, and retired Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar. Politicians from the PDP, LP, SDP and other parties were also present, signaling broad support for the new coalition.

Gbajabiamila, who voted at Polling Unit 014 at Elizabeth Fowler Memorial High School, described the election process as peaceful but expressed concern over low voter turnout.

“So far, I’ve seen peace and fairness, but I’m a bit disappointed about the turnout. That’s something we need to work on,” he said.

He emphasized the importance of grassroots governance and urged greater public awareness of the role of local governments.

“People don’t yet fully understand how critical local government elections are — arguably more important than national ones. We need to educate and sensitise our citizens.”

Concluding, he reiterated his satisfaction with the peaceful nature of the exercise: “So far, it’s quiet, it’s peaceful, it’s free and fair — and that’s the hallmark of a healthy democracy.”