As political realignments begin to take shape ahead of the 2027 general elections, the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu, has declared that President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) are not invincible, asserting that a united opposition can reclaim the country.
In an exclusive interview, Chief Nwosu painted a grim picture of the current state of Nigeria, citing widespread poverty, insecurity, and economic hardship as proof of APC’s failures. “Everywhere you go, the cry is the same — hunger, frustration, hopelessness,” he said. “How can such a government survive a united and determined opposition in 2027?”
The ADC helmsman disclosed that the party is working behind the scenes to build a broad-based coalition that includes political parties, civil society groups, youth organisations, labour unions, and diaspora networks. “Our plan is to build a citizens’ movement,” he stated. “Not just an elite-driven coalition, but a grassroots force that reflects the yearnings of everyday Nigerians.”
On Anambra, National Convention, and Party Growth
Responding to questions about ADC’s seeming silence ahead of the Anambra governorship election slated for November, Nwosu was philosophical. “Leadership is like an opera,” he said. “Everyone has a part to play, and we have a strategy in place. Anambra is my home state. We are very much at work.”
He also confirmed that the party’s long-awaited National Convention would take place within the next two to three months. Nwosu, who has led the party since its inception, announced that he would be stepping down to allow fresh leadership to emerge.
“ADC is transitioning fast,” he revealed. “We’ve grown in membership significantly. Our values have remained intact, and we are opening up our leadership and policy platforms to new voices.”
Atiku and Obi Welcome — But No Desperation
On the question of who would fly the ADC’s presidential flag in 2027, Nwosu said the party is open to working with credible and patriotic leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra Governor Peter Obi.
“If Atiku comes, why not?” Nwosu said. “He is arguably the most qualified in terms of experience and national reach. He’s urbane, connected, and has a deep understanding of the Nigerian state.”
While dismissing concerns about Atiku’s age, Nwosu said leadership should be based on competence and not necessarily youth. “If allowed, I would bring back Obasanjo as president. At almost 90, he is still more mentally and physically agile than most of today’s leaders.”
Asked about the possibility of Peter Obi joining ADC, the chairman was candid. “We supported Obi and Datti in 2023 when it mattered most. If he feels ADC is the right platform now, he knows where to find us. But even without Obi or Atiku, we’re building a strong youth-driven coalition that can deliver the presidency.”
ADC’s Confidence in a Citizens’ Movement
Nwosu said the ADC is currently in talks with the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) and dozens of civic and progressive organisations under the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM), African Farmers Club, and others. According to him, 73 groups have already aligned with the ADC.
“Governors and political godfathers are not our focus,” he added. “Many are compromised and afraid to speak truth to power because of EFCC threats. The last election showed that Nigerians can win elections without them.”
With structures now present in every polling unit, a diaspora network actively mobilizing support globally, and the ADC’s Continental Youth Council expanding rapidly, Nwosu concluded with a bold claim: “We’re not just ready for 2027. We are building something transformational. This is not about politics as usual — this is about rescuing Nigeria.”
Comments