The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has emphatically asserted the legality of its formation as a coalition platform poised to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election. The party’s spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, underscored that every step taken in establishing and endorsing the ADC as a coalition force has been meticulously grounded in legal principles. This statement comes in response to growing public discourse surrounding the party’s formation and its potential to unify opposition forces against the incumbent administration. Abdullahi further emphasized the robust legal framework upon which the ADC is built, assuring the public of the party’s commitment to operating within the bounds of the law.
The emergence of the ADC as a potential coalition platform has ignited considerable speculation, particularly regarding its capacity to manage the presidential ambitions of prominent political figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, and former APC presidential aspirant Rotimi Amaechi. Concerns have been raised about the potential for internal conflicts and power struggles within the coalition, should these individuals choose to contest the presidency under the ADC banner. The party’s spokesperson addressed these concerns head-on, emphasizing the ADC’s commitment to a fair and transparent selection process, devoid of any preordained outcomes or anointed candidates.
Abdullahi clarified that the ADC does not have a preferred candidate and will provide a level playing field for all aspirants. He acknowledged the existence of fervent support for individual aspirants, often expressed by individuals claiming to speak on their behalf. However, he emphasized that the party’s internal democratic processes will be strictly adhered to, and the ultimate decision rests with the party members themselves. He encouraged supporters of specific candidates to actively participate in the party by acquiring membership cards, thereby empowering them to vote for their preferred candidate during the primaries. This, he argued, would be a more effective way to support their chosen candidate than engaging in speculative pronouncements.
The ADC spokesperson directly addressed the speculation surrounding the stance of potential candidates, emphasizing that he hadn’t heard any of them declare an all-or-nothing approach to the coalition. He attributed such sentiments to enthusiastic supporters rather than the candidates themselves. This distinction highlights the party’s intention to maintain focus on its internal processes and resist being swayed by external pressures or pronouncements. The ADC’s commitment to internal democracy aims to create an environment where all aspirants feel valued and where the selection process is seen as legitimate and credible.
Abdullahi also addressed the legal challenges that the party might face, acknowledging that some individuals have initiated legal proceedings. However, he expressed confidence in the ADC’s legal standing, asserting that the party has taken meticulous precautions to prevent the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) from exploiting any legal loopholes to destabilize the nascent coalition. He emphasized that the formation of the ADC was not a hasty endeavor but a carefully planned process, taking into account the potential legal pitfalls and the likelihood of challenges from the ruling party. This proactive approach, he argued, demonstrates the party’s seriousness and its commitment to building a strong and resilient opposition platform.
The ADC’s strategy appears to be centered on establishing a solid legal foundation and promoting a transparent and democratic internal process. This approach seeks to mitigate potential internal conflicts and insulate the party from external interference, particularly from the ruling APC. The emphasis on legality and internal democracy is presented as a key differentiator, setting the ADC apart from other opposition parties and establishing it as a credible alternative for Nigerians seeking change in the 2027 elections. The party’s success will ultimately depend on its ability to maintain this commitment to democratic principles and navigate the complex political landscape of Nigeria.
