The Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) has urged the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to open itself to scrutiny over claims that it has not paid its workers for more than 12 months, insisting that parties seeking to run the country must first show they can manage their own finances responsibly.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Ahmad Sajoh, and Secretary, Danjuma Sada, the group said the controversy offers a chance to examine 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, touch on a basic duty of every employer, which is the prompt payment of workers who depend on their salaries to survive.
TSF observed that if the claims are proved, they would raise legitimate questions about the ADC’s financial management, its capacity to sustain party operations and the importance its leadership attaches to the welfare of workers.
According to the group, the issue also points to a wider question about the link between political ambition and financial responsibility.
The statement said: “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.”
TSF maintained that political parties aspiring to manage the nation’s finances should be transparent in their own affairs, disclose how their operations are funded and respect the welfare of those who work for them.
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 what matters most is whether political organisations have credible systems for managing resources and meeting obligations, rather than simply making promises about what they would do if given public office.
TSF also urged political parties to present practical economic programmes supported by transparent financing arrangements, measurable targets and clear safeguards against the misuse of public funds.
It said political leadership should be judged not only by the ambitions of those seeking office but also by their demonstrated commitment to responsible administration, workers’ welfare and financial accountability.
The Forum added: “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.”
