A storm of controversy has erupted over the alleged membership of top political figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra governor Peter Obi, and ex-Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai in the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The coalition’s recent unveiling has drawn criticism from political heavyweights and party loyalists who argue that the move lacks transparency and legitimacy.
Prominent PDP chieftain, Chief Bode George, fiercely condemned the actions of Atiku, David Mark, and other PDP defectors, accusing them of destabilizing the party while pretending to build a new front. George described their move to join the ADC coalition without formally exiting their parties as a political sham, saying it undermines internal party democracy and cohesion.
Similarly, Labour Party chairman Julius Abure lambasted Abia State Governor Alex Otti for allegedly working with the ADC while claiming allegiance to the LP. Abure described Otti’s dual loyalty as deceptive, urging him to officially leave the party if he has chosen to align with Peter Obi in the new coalition.
Meanwhile, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu dismissed the ADC coalition as a mere distraction, insisting that President Tinubu’s reform-driven leadership is gaining traction among Nigerians. He cited the administration’s achievements in economic stabilization, student loans, and wage reform as proof that the nation is on the right path.
Further criticisms came from PDP leaders and youth groups in the north, who questioned the motives behind the coalition. Chidi Lloyd, a PDP member, called the alliance “dead on arrival,” arguing that it consists of political veterans with no new ideas. The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum and the Northern Awareness Network also raised concerns over comments by El-Rufai and Rotimi Amaechi, warning that such remarks could erode public trust in INEC and democratic processes.
The growing backlash highlights the deepening distrust and power tussles within Nigeria’s political landscape, raising questions about the authenticity and direction of the ADC-led coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
