Crisis is brewing within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as several state chairmen have raised objections to the recent takeover of the party’s structure by a new interim leadership backed by prominent political figures. The development follows the formation of a grand opposition coalition aiming to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.
The chairmen, drawn from various states, have faulted the decision to collapse the party’s existing structures without consulting key stakeholders. They argue that the move undermines internal democracy and shows blatant disregard for the grassroots base that has sustained the party over the years. Benue State Chairman Elias Adikwu described the process as hijacked by “a bunch of greedy old men” who are disconnected from the party’s vision.
Former presidential candidate of the ADC, Dumebi Kachikwu, also criticized the interim arrangement, accusing those behind it of sidelining genuine party loyalists. He insisted that the ADC’s strength lies in its grassroots network and not in aligning with elite political figures who do not represent the party’s values.In response to the mounting backlash, some chairmen from states like Borno and Akwa Ibom revealed that they are holding back from implementing the changes until further clarity is provided by the party’s former leadership. Others expressed concern over the sudden dissolution of ward, local government, and state structures without due process.
Despite the internal resistance, members of the coalition’s interim leadership remain resolute. Mabel Oboh, former ADC spokesperson and a key figure in the coalition, maintained that the merger is aimed at creating a formidable political front to unseat the APC in 2027. She dismissed the dissent as a temporary setback, urging party members to support the coalition’s broader objective.Meanwhile, ADC’s Interim National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, defended the formation of the interim leadership, noting that all necessary legal and procedural steps were taken. He emphasized that the changes were endorsed by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) and ratified by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).The unfolding drama underscores the fragile state of Nigeria’s opposition politics as parties attempt to forge alliances ahead of the next general elections.
While the coalition appears to be gaining momentum, internal dissent and lack of cohesion could threaten its effectiveness unless consensus is reached among stakeholders.
