Presidency Accused of Plot to Block ADC from 2027 Elections by Civil Society Group
A prominent civil society organization has leveled serious allegations against the presidency, claiming there is a coordinated effort to undermine opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Nigeria Democratic Rights Advocacy (NDRA) has accused the presidency of plotting to prevent the African Democratic Congress (ADC) from participating in the upcoming elections. According to the group, the ADC's growing political influence has unsettled President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration, prompting what they describe as desperate measures to weaken the opposition party.
Alleged Meeting with Legal Experts
NDRA Secretary-General Julius Aondowase revealed in a statement issued on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, that a senior northern political appointee within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) convened a strategic meeting in Abuja on Monday, March 30, 2025.
The meeting reportedly included Senior Advocates of Nigeria and members of the judiciary who were gathered to explore legal options that could hinder the ADC's participation in the 2027 elections.
"We have it from reliable sources that a meeting was convened in Abuja with senior legal minds to explore options that could hinder the ADC from participating in the elections," Aondowase stated.
Targeting ADC Leadership
The civil society group claims the plot specifically targets the legitimacy of the ADC's leadership under former Senate President David Mark. According to NDRA, there is a coordinated attempt to disqualify the David Mark-led leadership through legal processes, with the ultimate aim of weakening the party ahead of the crucial elections.
"It is clear to us that there is a coordinated attempt to disqualify the David Mark-led leadership of the ADC, with the aim of weakening the party ahead of the elections," the group emphasized.
Threat to Democracy
The NDRA has issued a stern warning about the potential consequences of such actions, stating that any attempt to undermine opposition parties would pose a significant threat to Nigeria's democracy and electoral integrity.
The group's allegations come at a time when the ADC has been gaining political momentum, with recent defections strengthening its Senate presence ahead of the upcoming polls.
Political Context and Reactions
Political commentator Olajumoke Victor has emphasized the importance of ideology and strong leadership for effective opposition against the ruling party, noting that "numbers alone do not guarantee strength" in political contests.
Meanwhile, former Ekiti state governor Ayodele Fayose has made predictions about the ADC's future, suggesting the party could collapse if Peter Obi fails to secure its 2027 presidential ticket. Fayose has also questioned potential 2027 political alignments, suggesting Atiku Abubakar could clinch the PDP ticket while expressing doubts about Obi's chances of returning as a running mate.
The allegations emerge as over 2,000 delegates attended the PDP national convention in Abuja, with former governor Okezie Ikpeazu confirming that reconciliation efforts within the party would continue.
The NDRA's claims represent one of the most serious allegations of electoral interference ahead of the 2027 elections and have raised concerns about the state of Nigeria's democratic processes.
