The Director-General of THE BRIDGE for Renewed Hope, Hon. Rowland Odih, has called on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to place national interest above partisan considerations and work with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to move Nigeria forward.

The DG made the appeal in the wake of reports of a court judgment ordering the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties, describing the development as a significant moment in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

In a statement, Odih said the ruling serves as a reminder that political actors must prioritise the stability, unity and development of the country over personal ambitions and partisan interests.

Odih said: “Nigeria is at a critical stage in its democratic journey. This is a time for patriotic leadership, constructive engagement and collective commitment to nation-building.

“I urge former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other opposition leaders to work with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in advancing policies and reforms that will strengthen our democracy and improve the lives of Nigerians.”

He noted that while political competition remains a vital aspect of democracy, collaboration among leaders is equally important in addressing the nation’s economic, security and developmental challenges.

Odih noted that under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, significant efforts have been made to stabilize the economy, attract investments, expand infrastructure, reform the oil and gas sector, improve revenue generation, and strengthen social intervention programmes aimed at supporting vulnerable Nigerians.

He argued that Nigeria’s development challenges require collective leadership and national consensus rather than political division.

According to him, if former Vice President Atiku Abubakar joins hands with President Tinubu by contributing his experience, network and ideas, both leaders can work together to advance economic growth, create jobs, improve security and deepen democratic governance for the benefit of all Nigerians.

He added, “President Tinubu has demonstrated commitment to difficult but necessary reforms aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s economy and strengthening critical sectors. At this crucial moment, national development should take precedence over partisan politics.

“With the combined experience and influence of President Tinubu and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Nigeria stands to benefit from greater political stability, stronger institutions, accelerated economic growth and improved opportunities for citizens across the country.”

The former Atiku Youth Wing DG maintained that President Tinubu’s administration requires the support of all well-meaning Nigerians to deliver on its mandate and ensure sustainable growth across the country.

Odih further urged supporters of affected political parties to remain calm and law-abiding while pursuing all available legal and constitutional options regarding the court’s decision.

He reaffirmed THE BRIDGE for Renewed Hope’s commitment to promoting national unity, inclusive governance and democratic consolidation, stressing that Nigeria’s progress should remain the overriding goal of all political stakeholders.

“History will favour leaders who place the nation above politics. This is the moment to close ranks, embrace dialogue and work together for a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria,” he said.