Daniel Otera
In a political climate marked by deepening economic hardship, insecurity, and declining public trust, the unveiling of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as the unified platform for Nigeria’s major opposition figures signals a watershed moment. Far from being a mere political calculation, the coalition represents a strategic, courageous move toward rebuilding the nation’s democratic foundations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
What began as a response to bureaucratic delays in registering a new party—the All Democratic Alliance (ADA)—has evolved into a dynamic reconfiguration of Nigeria’s opposition, one that could change the trajectory of national politics. With high-profile leaders like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, former Senate President David Mark, ex-Interior Minister Rauf Aregbesola, and former Kaduna governor, Nasir El-Rufai, aligning under the ADC banner, the coalition is presenting a bold and united front against the APC government.
Its promoters say at the heart of this coalition is the urgent need to rescue Nigeria from years of economic mismanagement, widespread insecurity, and democratic decline. The coalition’s formation under the ADC is not simply about winning elections—it is about stabilizing a fragile nation and offering Nigerians a credible, unified alternative rooted in experience, inclusiveness, and reform.
Ralph Nwosu, the founding chairman of the ADC, described it as a “new beginning” and announced the appointments of David Mark as National Chairman and Aregbesola as National Secretary.
“They will reposition the party and reposition Nigeria,” Nwosu said at the Abuja unveiling.
According to them, this signals a deliberate attempt to infuse the party with the kind of leadership and national reach necessary for a serious challenge in 2027.
One of the most commendable aspects of this development is the coalition’s ability to transcend historic political rivalries and unite around a shared vision. The likes of Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi—who contested against each other in 2023—are now working together, demonstrating maturity, humility, and a commitment to collective interest over personal ambition.
Rather than being an elite recycling project, this coalition shows that political actors can evolve and align for the greater good. It also reflects a growing awareness that fragmented opposition only serves to strengthen incumbency, especially in a country with a questionable electoral system.
“We cannot afford to divide our votes again,” said Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour. “If you add Atiku’s and Obi’s votes, they take out the current president.”
The coalition, thus, represents the coming together of Nigeria’s most formidable opposition forces in a bid to consolidate voter strength and offer hope to disillusioned Nigerians.
Though previously underutilized electorally, the ADC now offers a tested and legally recognized platform—eliminating the delays and uncertainties that accompany INEC registration for new parties. Rather than starting from scratch, the coalition has chosen a viable springboard that can be swiftly mobilized nationwide.
The choice of the ADC also reflects a desire to invigorate existing democratic structures rather than abandon them. With new leadership and fresh momentum, the party is poised to undergo the most significant transformation since its formation.
Yes, internal disagreements have surfaced—as is expected in any democratic setting—but that’s a sign of engagement, not failure. Dialogue is ongoing, and as Dr. Kemi Olatunji of Bayero University puts it, “Democracy thrives on contestation. The fact that the ADC is having this moment shows it is alive and growing.”
Critics have pointed to the political history of the coalition’s key figures as a liability. Yet, experience—when coupled with reflection—can be an asset. The coalition is populated by seasoned leaders who have witnessed the shortcomings of past systems and are now uniquely positioned to reform them from within: Atiku Abubakar brings administrative experience and nationwide networks. Peter Obi brings credibility among youth and urban voters. Rauf Aregbesola and Nasir El-Rufai bring insights from governance at both state and federal levels. Together, they form a leadership collective that understands Nigeria’s complex political terrain and can navigate it effectively.
The timing of this coalition could not be more critical. Nigeria is reeling under economic pressure: Headline inflation stood at 34.8% as of December 2024, with food and fuel prices driving up household hardship. Over 13 million Nigerians are at risk of falling into poverty in 2025, according to projections by economic experts. Insecurity remains rampant, with over 17,000 deaths in the North-West and North-East since 2023 due to banditry and insurgency. The APC government appears overwhelmed, and public trust is eroding. In this environment, the ADC coalition offers not just a political alternative—but a lifeline for democratic governance and national renewal.
Admittedly, concerns have been raised about the manner in which the coalition leadership was announced. However, such concerns are being addressed. Dialogue with existing party structures is ongoing, and there is growing consensus that unity should not come at the cost of inclusion.
The ADC has reaffirmed its commitment to internal democracy, and efforts are underway to harmonize leadership arrangements with constitutional provisions, including adherence to Section 82 of the Electoral Act.
“Coalition politics is not the problem,” said Yabagi Sani, Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC). “The problem is coalitions without rules. This one is evolving, not collapsing.”
In 2015, the APC unseated the PDP through a successful merger of opposition parties, largely built on compromise, planning, and organizational discipline. The ADC coalition can follow that blueprint—with added emphasis on inclusion, youth engagement, and ideological direction.
Unlike past opposition coalitions formed purely to seize power, this one emerges at a time when Nigerians are demanding real reform, accountability, and service delivery.
The ADC coalition is far from perfect, but it is undoubtedly promising. It represents the most significant opposition realignment in nearly a decade and offers Nigerians a chance to reset the national political narrative.
Rather than focus on internal tensions, the real story is that prominent political actors—despite their differences—are coming together to rescue a nation in distress. If nurtured with transparency, grassroots involvement, and a shared commitment to democratic ethics, the coalition could mark a new chapter in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
At its core, this alliance is not about personalities. It is about restoring faith in the idea that politics can still be a force for good—and that Nigeria’s future can still be reclaimed through collective action.
