TSF Demands Explanation From ADC Over Alleged 12-Month Unpaid Salaries
Oru Leonard
The Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) has called on the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to address allegations that the party has failed to pay its workers for more than 12 months, stressing the need for financial transparency and accountability among political organisations.
The Forum said the controversy, which followed allegations raised by the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council, provides an opportunity to examine the financial management practices of political parties seeking the mandate to govern Nigeria.
In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Ahmad Sajoh, and Secretary, Danjuma Sada, TSF described the payment of workers’ salaries as a fundamental responsibility that should not be compromised by organisations, irrespective of their political ambitions.
It noted that if the allegations against the ADC are substantiated, they would raise serious questions about the party’s financial management, operational capacity and commitment to the welfare of its employees.
The Forum argued that political parties aspiring to manage the nation’s resources must first demonstrate sound financial practices, transparency and respect for their own institutional obligations.
“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 statement said.
TSF specifically urged former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the ADC leadership to clarify the issues surrounding the alleged salary arrears, the party’s financial obligations, internal accountability mechanisms and the funding of its political programmes.
It maintained that the credibility of political organisations should be measured not merely by their promises to Nigerians but also by their demonstrated ability to manage resources responsibly and fulfil existing commitments.
The Forum further called on political parties to present realistic economic programmes supported by transparent funding arrangements, measurable targets and effective safeguards against the misuse of public resources.
It stressed that workers’ welfare, financial discipline and institutional accountability must form part of the criteria for assessing the preparedness of political parties to assume public leadership.
As the country approaches the 2027 general elections, TSF urged political actors to recognise that managing public resources comes with enormous responsibility and must be guided by the interests of citizens.
The Forum reiterated that Nigeria’s national treasury belongs to the people and should be dedicated to national development, essential public services and citizens’ welfare rather than private enrichment or political patronage.
