How we defied APC’s impunity, lawlessness to hold our party’s convention – Lauretta Onochie
By KEMI KASUMU
“Yesterday Was Historic. Standing on the rule of law, We defied their impunity and lawlessness. We taught them a lesson. In that lesson, they learned they do not own our nation. That the people of Nigeria, own our nation.”
A prominent political figure, Lauretta Onochie, has described events at the African Democratic Congress (ADC) convention on Tuesday April 14, 2026 as “historic,” following reported disruptions that she says failed to derail the party’s resolve ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to Onochie in a statement she posted Wednesday April 15, a day after the event, the convention faced significant interference, including a power outage at the venue and alleged internet disruptions. Despite these challenges believed to have been posed by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), she claimed party members and supporters remained steadfast, framing the incident as a test of resilience and commitment to democratic principles.
She asserted that the events demonstrated that political power ultimately resides with the Nigerian people, not with any group attempting to undermine lawful processes. “The people of Nigeria own the nation,” she emphasized, portraying the response to the disruptions as a symbolic stand for the rule of law.
Onochie further stated that, even amid reported connectivity issues, discussions surrounding the ADC convention continued to gain traction online, signaling sustained public engagement. She criticized those allegedly responsible for the disruptions, accusing them of attempting to stifle democratic participation.
Looking ahead, Onochie expressed confidence in the ADC’s prospects for the 2027 elections, declaring that the momentum generated from the convention would translate into broader political gains. She also acknowledged the presence of foreign observers and supporters, thanking them for their participation and ongoing engagement.
In her words, “Yesterday Was Historic. Standing on the rule of law, We defied their impunity and lawlessness. We taught them a lesson. In that lesson, they learned they do not own our nation. That the people of Nigeria, own our nation.
“Yesterday, as they switched off the light at the venue of our convention, we, the people of Nigeria, turned on the light of our resolve and resilience which illuminated our pathway for the recovery of our nation.
“As they jammed the Internet, our ADC convention was trending on the Internet even till the greater part of today.
“Shameless people! But they suddenly realised they couldn’t reach us to beg for mercy. Then they turned on the Internet to tell us to tone it down!
“The answer they got from us, was, “No Retreat, No Surrender.”
“In 2027, the people will fully, take back their nation from those with leprous fingers who reap where they did not sow and who have no respect for the laws of our land nor the constitution which governs Nigeria.
“Yesterday, 14th April, 2026, we won 2027.
Thank you to all the foreign missions who came to observe our convention.
“Thank you to everyone who has joined and is also, mobilising for ADC. We stand together,” said Lauretta Onochie.
