ADC’s Focus on Grassroots and Political Transformation
As the 2027 presidential election approaches, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has made it clear that its priorities extend beyond the traditional issue of zoning. Instead, the party is emphasizing the development of a robust, grassroots-based political structure across Nigeria. This shift in focus reflects a broader strategy aimed at reshaping the country’s political landscape.
The ADC’s approach centers on principles, practical solutions, and people-centred governance, rather than relying on regional power-sharing arrangements. According to Bolaji Abdullahi, the Interim National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, the party is not fixated on the presidency as the sole goal but is instead focused on building capacity at all levels of government.
Abdullahi explained: “We are building the party to be a serious contender, not just a participant. But we are not fixated on the presidency as though it were the only prize worth winning. That kind of thinking is part of what has led to the political dysfunction we see today.”
He emphasized that the ADC aims to contest and win governorships, Senate seats, House of Representatives seats, and positions in state assemblies. The party’s strategy involves laying a strong foundation for future success, with an emphasis on readiness, organization, and credibility.
A New Vision for Nigerian Politics
Abdullahi criticized the current state of Nigerian politics, which he described as deeply divided along regional and ethnic lines. He argued that both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) often prioritize power-sharing over competence and unity. In contrast, the ADC is positioned as a deliberate and necessary intervention in the political system.
“The ADC is fundamentally different from the traditional political formations Nigerians are familiar with,” Abdullahi said. “It is a conscious response to a political vacuum. Over the past decade, what we have witnessed is the gradual erosion of meaningful opposition in Nigeria.”
He pointed out that the APC, formed in 2013, was a coalition driven by expediency, while the ADC emerged from a coalition of individuals who recognized the need for change. “The ADC is here to give Nigerians a real alternative—not just a new name, but a new vision.”
Grassroots Mobilization and Community Structures
A key component of the ADC’s strategy is grassroots mobilization and the establishment of credible, community-led party structures across the country. Abdullahi highlighted that real political change begins at the grassroots level, not in high offices.
“In the SouthEast and SouthSouth, we have credible political leaders and organizers who are putting in the work to establish strong, community-based structures,” he said. “In the SouthWest, we’ve seen impressive signs; the crowd that turned out for our rally in Ekiti on Saturday was not by accident.”
He also noted the momentum generated by figures like Aregbesola in Osun, suggesting that something is stirring across the country, with the ADC providing direction. “Our politics is one of ideas, of solutions, of national renewal,” Abdullahi added.
Continuing the Fight for ADA Registration
Meanwhile, Dr Umar Ardo, the Secretary of the Coalition’s Sub-Committee on the Feasibility of the Registration of a New Political Party, addressed speculation about the ADC’s stance on the registration of the All Democratic Alliance (ADA). Ardo dismissed claims that the coalition had abandoned its application for ADA registration.
He explained that the coalition is following a two-pronged approach. While the ADC is present, the coalition is not abandoning its efforts to register ADA. “The only mistake is the ADC getting Senator David Mark as chairman, which has given the impression that the ADC is the coalition,” Ardo said.
Ardo confirmed that the application for ADA registration is still undergoing INEC processes. He expressed confidence that the ADA will form government in 2027, citing the public’s dissatisfaction with the current administration.
“The feasibility committee, chaired by former Rivers State governor Rotimi Ameachi, concluded that registering a new political party isn’t just a tactical move. It is a bold and strategic move that will redefine the opposition’s purpose,” Ardo added.
This initiative, he explained, will create an authentic alternative to entrenched political forces and galvanize popular momentum to inspire hope.
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