The Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, has come under criticism following remarks urging a member of the House of Representatives, Leke Abejide, to remain in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and “scatter” the party from within.

The comment was made during the 50th birthday celebration of Abejide’s wife in Abuja, where a video of the event surfaced online on Monday, sparking widespread reactions.

In the viral clip, Gbajabiamila, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, was heard encouraging the lawmaker, reportedly aligned with a faction within the party, to intensify internal struggles rather than defect.

“I know you to be a committed party man… Stay in that same ADC. Fight them. Scatter them. Hold on to your party,” he said.

The African Democratic Congress is currently grappling with internal divisions, as factions battle for control of the party structure.

Gbajabiamila’s remarks have since triggered backlash on social media platform X, with many Nigerians condemning the statement as undemocratic and an attempt to destabilise opposition politics.

Several users criticised the comments, accusing the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of promoting political interference.

One user, Lapai Boy, wrote that the ruling party would not remain in power indefinitely, while others described the remarks as reckless and unbecoming of a top government official.

Another commenter, Isah Ishola, said the development reflects a pattern of “politics of destruction,” adding that such statements diminish the dignity of the presidency.

The controversy comes amid heightened political activities and realignments across party lines, as opposition parties continue efforts to reposition ahead of future electoral contests.