Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) has called for a transparent examination of allegations that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has failed to pay its workers for more than 12 months.
In a statement signed by its Chairman Ahmad Sajoh and Secretary Danjuma Sada, the group described the controversy as an opportunity to scrutinise the standards of financial accountability expected of political parties seeking public office.
The Forum noted that the allegations, raised by the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council, concern a fundamental obligation of every employer: the timely payment of workers who depend on their salaries for their livelihoods.
TSF observed that, if substantiated, the allegations would raise legitimate questions about ADC’s financial management, its ability to sustain party operations and the priority its leadership places on workers’ welfare.
According to TSF, the controversy also raises a broader issue about the relationship between political ambition and financial responsibility.
“Nigeria’s treasury is not a pot of soup. Public office is a sacred trust, and the resources of the Nigerian people must never be regarded as an entitlement for politicians, political associates or their supporters,” the Forum stated.
TSF maintained that political parties aspiring to manage the nation’s finances should demonstrate transparency in their own financial affairs, disclose how their operations are funded and show respect for the welfare of those working within their organisations.
The Forum called on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the ADC leadership to address the questions arising from the controversy, including the party’s financial obligations, internal accountability arrangements and the funding of its political programmes.
It stressed that the central consideration should be whether political organisations have established credible systems for managing resources and fulfilling obligations, rather than merely making promises about what they would accomplish if entrusted with public office.
TSF further urged political parties to present practical economic programmes backed by transparent financing arrangements, measurable targets and clear safeguards against the misuse of public funds.
The Forum maintained that political leadership must be measured not only by the ambitions of those seeking office but also by their demonstrated commitment to responsible administration, workers’ welfare and financial accountability.
“As Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, every political organisation must recognise that the national treasury belongs to the Nigerian people. Its resources are meant for public development, essential services and the welfare of citizens, not private enrichment or political patronage,” the Forum added.
End
