ADC Leaders Call for Unity, Principled Loyalty at Launch of Abdullahi’s The Loyalist
Political leaders, intellectuals and key stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) converged in Abuja on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, for the public presentation of The Loyalist, a new book by the party’s National Secretary, Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, an event that sparked wide-ranging reflections on loyalty, leadership and Nigeria’s democratic future.
Speaking at the event, Abdullahi used the occasion to issue a passionate call for national unity, urging political leaders to rise above personal ambition and prioritise Nigeria’s collective interest.
“This country has been subjected to harsh and painful alternatives,” he said. “Nigerians are waiting. Everywhere I go, citizens tell us one thing: you must not fail us.”
He appealed to leaders and supporters of the ADC to consolidate their efforts, stressing that the task of rebuilding Nigeria transcends individual aspirations.
“If this gathering achieves only one thing today—bringing us closer together on purpose—then it is enough,” Abdullahi stated.
Providing insight into the book, the author revealed that The Loyalist was written over a six-year period and was initially conceived under the working title In the Shadow of the Godfather. He described the work as both a personal and national reflection on power, political relationships and the human cost of loyalty in public life.
“This book is not about one man,” he explained. “It is the story of Nigeria—as I saw it and as I lived it.”
Abdullahi also acknowledged the individuals who shaped his intellectual journey, including his publisher and early mentors, while underscoring the role of literature in shaping conscience, empathy and leadership values.
Speaking as Special Guest of Honour, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described The Loyalist as a timely and courageous interrogation of the meaning of loyalty in governance and public service.
“The book challenges us to examine our loyalties—to our country, our institutions and our moral compass,” Atiku said. “True loyalty must serve the common good. It must unite, not divide.”
Drawing from his experience in public life, Atiku noted that loyalty in politics is complex and must be anchored in accountability, transparency and service to the people. He added that effective leadership demands courage, compassion and the willingness to make difficult choices in the national interest.
The former Vice President also called for civic unity, describing the convergence of diverse political tendencies within the ADC as a critical step toward addressing Nigeria’s current challenges.
“We stand at a defining moment in our political journey,” he said. “The convergence of different political traditions offers a genuine opportunity for national renewal.”
The event concluded with renewed calls for dialogue, principled leadership and inclusive governance, as speakers urged Nigerians to see The Loyalist not merely as a memoir, but as a mirror for personal and collective responsibility.
The book presentation was attended by prominent political figures, including the ADC National Chairman and former Senate President, Senator David Mark; former Governor of Sokoto State, Senator Aminu Tambuwal; former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi; former Governor of Osun State, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola; former Governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, among others.
