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By Stella Odueme
The Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) has challenged the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to clarify allegations that it has owed its workers salaries for more than 12 months, describing the controversy as a test of the party's commitment to financial accountability.
The Forum, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Ahmad Sajoh, and Secretary, Danjuma Sada, said the allegations raised by the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council deserved transparent investigation and a clear response from the ADC leadership.
It noted that regular payment of workers' salaries was a basic responsibility of every employer, stressing that failure to meet such obligations, if established, would raise serious concerns about the party's financial management and commitment to staff welfare.
TSF argued that political parties seeking to govern Nigeria must demonstrate responsible management of resources within their organisations before making promises about managing the country's economy.
The group declared that the nation's treasury must not be treated as a source of personal benefit or political patronage.
"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," it stated.
The Forum called on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the ADC leadership to explain the party's financial position, its outstanding obligations to workers, internal accountability mechanisms and sources of funding for its political activities.
It maintained that political organisations must be assessed not only on their electoral promises but also on their ability to fulfil financial obligations and uphold transparent administrative practices.
TSF further urged political parties to present realistic economic programmes supported by credible funding arrangements, measurable objectives and safeguards against the diversion of public resources.
According to the Forum, leadership should be measured by demonstrated commitment to responsible governance, workers' welfare and financial discipline.
It added that as the country approaches the 2027 general elections, political parties must understand that public resources belong to Nigerians and should be devoted to national development, essential services and citizens' welfare rather than private interests.
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