In Nigeria, a brewing crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) threatens to derail a high-profile coalition aimed at challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections. The coalition, backed by heavyweights like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and ex-governors Nasir El-Rufai and Rauf Aregbesola, has adopted the ADC as its platform to unite opposition forces. But internal dissent is growing as state chairmen push back against what they call an unconstitutional takeover.
The conflict erupted after former ADC National Chairman Ralph Nwosu dissolved all party structures to install an interim leadership, with former Senate President David Mark as National Chairman and Aregbesola as National Secretary. State chairmen, including Elias Adikwu of Benue and Etimbuk Umoh of Akwa Ibom, have condemned the move, arguing it violates the ADC’s constitution, which lacks provisions for interim leadership. They demand inclusion in decision-making and respect for the party’s founding members, with Adikwu stating, “They cannot take over a party they did not build.”
ADC stakeholders, including women leaders and state secretaries, echo these concerns, likening the coalition’s actions to “a tenant pushing out the landlord.” They’re calling for a national convention to elect substantive leaders before finalizing any alliance. The ADC’s 2023 presidential candidate, Dumebi Kachikwu, has also criticized the coalition, branding its leaders as “greedy old men.”
Despite the tensions, the Forum of ADC State Chairmen, led by Kingsley Ogga, insists the party remains united, claiming disputes were resolved through INEC’s mediation. The coalition aims to address Nigeria’s economic and security challenges, but analysts warn that clashing ambitions among its prominent members could fracture the alliance before 2027.
As the ADC navigates this crisis, the opposition’s dream of a unified front hangs in the balance, with state chairmen holding firm on their demands for fairness and constitutional adherence.
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