A former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Timi Frank, has criticised the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, over comments he made about the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing them as reckless and capable of undermining Nigeria’s democracy.

Frank, in a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, said the remarks were dangerous, alleging that they could encourage internal crisis within opposition parties and weaken democratic institutions.

The controversy followed a viral video from a 50th birthday event in Abuja, where Gbajabiamila, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, was seen urging Hon. Leke Abejide to remain in the ADC and “fight” within the party amid its ongoing leadership crisis. He was also heard saying the lawmaker should “scatter them” while defending his political base in the party.

The ADC has recently been embroiled in factional disputes, with rival groups laying claim to its leadership, while the Independent National Electoral Commission has reportedly declined to recognise either faction pending legal clarity.

Reacting, Frank argued that Gbajabiamila’s comments go beyond political rhetoric, warning that they raise constitutional concerns given his position as Chief of Staff to the President.

He said the remarks could be interpreted as evidence of executive interference in opposition politics, adding that such conduct risks eroding public trust in democratic institutions and the judiciary.

Frank further alleged that the comments reflect a broader pattern of attempts to weaken opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party, Labour Party, New Nigeria Peoples Party, and the ADC.

According to him, “When a Chief of Staff speaks, it reflects the body language of the President,” insisting that the statement suggested an attempt to destabilise opposition structures.

He also called for Gbajabiamila’s resignation and urged the United States government to investigate his conduct, citing his dual citizenship and alleging possible breaches related to tax compliance.

Frank said he would also petition the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria over the matter, insisting that public office holders must respect constitutional boundaries and democratic principles.

In the viral clip, Gbajabiamila was heard encouraging Abejide to remain in the ADC, resist internal opposition, and continue his political struggle within the party as it battles internal disputes and legal challenges.