A senior official of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has made a bold declaration, stating that his party is positioned to overcome Nigeria's two dominant political forces in the upcoming general elections.
A New Political Movement for Nigeria
Senator Suleiman Nazif Gamawa, the National Vice Chairman of the ADC, asserted that his party is the only platform capable of alleviating the hardship faced by Nigerians. He expressed strong confidence in the ADC's ability to present credible candidates who can successfully defeat both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Gamawa made these statements on Monday during an interactive session with journalists in Bauchi. He emphasized that the ADC would emerge as a dominant force in the 2027 general elections, regardless of whether it has serving governors within its ranks at the time.
Confidence Without Incumbent Governors
Addressing a potential weakness, Gamawa insisted that the absence of a sitting governor in the ADC would not be a hindrance to its electoral success. To support his claim, he recalled a significant precedent in Nigerian political history.
"The people have already believed that a new political movement is the option, so ADC is the saviour. We are giving them one blow," Gamawa stated emphatically.
He drew a parallel to former President Muhammadu Buhari, who once defeated an incumbent president without the backing of governors from his party. This historical reference underpins the ADC's belief that a well-organized movement can triumph over established political structures.
Internal Unity and an Open Door Policy
The party chieftain also claimed that the ADC is not facing any internal challenges, presenting a united front. He extended an invitation to politicians in other parties who feel sidelined or betrayed to join the ADC movement.
In a move to distinguish itself from its main rivals, Gamawa announced that the ADC would not make its nomination forms prohibitively expensive. "We are not going to be like them. We will give a chance to every well-meaning Nigerian," he promised, highlighting the party's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
Boasting over 30 years of political experience, including a past role as the Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, Gamawa expressed confidence that he and other leaders would successfully reposition the ADC for victory. He assured Nigerians that if elected into power, the party would remain fair and just to the masses.
A Call to Action and a Major Political Shift
Gamawa urged all eligible voters to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and prepare to participate actively in the forthcoming elections. He stressed that voting is not only a fundamental right but also a crucial civic responsibility.
He issued a warning, stating that Nigerians would continue to suffer the consequences of bad leadership if they fail to vote wisely. Gamawa lamented that the nation's politics and governance have been hijacked by a select few individuals. He added that the ADC is committed to mentoring young people who are interested in leadership and political participation, aiming to broaden the political landscape.
In a significant and related development that shakes up the opposition landscape, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has formally registered as a member of the African Democratic Congress in his home state of Adamawa. This registration was completed on Monday, following a public announcement to ADC supporters and local stakeholders over the weekend.
The event was marked by celebration, with videos and photographs capturing the moment Abubakar's convoy arrived in the town amidst drumming, singing, and cheering supporters carrying placards bearing his image. Shortly after the registration, the former Vice President confirmed the move on his X account with a simple post: "It's official. -AA." This development signals a major realignment in Nigerian opposition politics as the country gears up for the 2027 polls.
