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Food for thought for African Democratic Congress (ADC)

‘A nation is great not by its size alone. It is the will, the cohesion, the stamina, the discipline of its people and the quality of their leaders which ensure it an honorable place in history.”- Mr. Lee Kuan Yew – the First Prime Minister of Singapore’

Effectively, as we approach the 2027 general elections in Nigeria, except some critical steps are taken by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the ADC will not stand a chance to even compete talkless of to win the 2027 presidential elections against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The clock is already ticking, build up to the 2027 elections. And here we are, the opposition political figures and the opposition political parties in Nigeria are In disarray. There is currently, no unanimity of focus, there is no alignment of key objectives, there seem to be no potential to build up to a consensus with regard to zoning of the President slot, or where the ADC stands, in terms of its strategy.

How will ADC deal with the big egos currently in the ADC? That is another food for thought.

Good enough just two days ago, the ADC leadership finally setup a 50-member, Manifesto drafting Committee, to come with a draft of what the ADC has to offer to Nigerians or what the other political parties have to offer Nigerians show us what they have to offer that could be better what President Bola Tinubu, and the All Progressives Congress (APC) have been doing in the past two and a half to three years. Indeed, in my view, in comparison with previous dispensations, so far this is the most lame and reactive opposition time in the political history of Nigeria

The current opposition political parties in Nigeria, are yet to have a unity of purpose, talk less of strategy of putting their houses in order, to be able to effectively fight a very entrenched, highly experienced, war-scarred, dominant and incumbent President Bola Tinubu and his political party. And it worries me as a Nigerian because we need an effective opposition to put President Tinubu and APC on their toes as they deliver their mandates at federal and state levels, so that they can do more. That consciousness will also make the ruling party to know that they have an opposition that can actually compete with them.

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By the way, many people do not know that I have political experience. As a bit of background about my political antecedents; I was a founding member of the All Peoples Party (APP) in 1998, and I was appointed as the first Information Analyst at the APP National Secretariat, working directly with the National Chairman and the National Secretary (within the National Working Committee). I worked with different Committees including Planning and Organizing Committees, Mobilization Committees, National Convention Committee, the APP Governorship elections Campaign team for late Engineer Magaji Abdullahi, the APP Governorship Candidate for Kano State in the 1999 Gubernatorial elections, etc. I was given level-1 confidentiality clearance and ran political assignments at the highest level. After the Presidential elections, In the second half of 1999, I followed some of my Principals, to switch affiliation to the PDP along with other party chieftains. In the PDP, I was also privileged to work at top levels with the likes of the late Ibrahim Aminu Saleh, and other Party chieftains. One such instance was playing a key role in the emergence of Chief Audu Ogbe as the PDP National Chairman in 2001. Following that development, I became actively involved in partisan politics and undertaking national assignments. In 2005, midway into the second term of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, I decided to revert back fully to my professional career and stepped away from partisan politics.

Having been a member of an opposition political party, as well as the ruling party, I understand the mechanics and dynamics of politics and party administration. Since the time I left politics in 2005, interestingly, today, all our political mentors, leaders, and colleagues from 1998 to date are in all the political parties, APC, PDP, Labour Party or NNPP because the politicians have all spread out. And that tells you the kind of politics we have in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, there is a tension that is building up in the APC and I have said severally, that the biggest opposition of APC, is the APC itself , i.e, Complacency, and the sense of entitlement. What to watch out for are the APC ward and state congresses which commence soon. The ADC or any serious political party will put their house in order, tidy up their platforms. Because some people will be looking for where to run to. There is no how the APC go into the presidential election as it is. As a vehicle that is solid without some people having to look for alternatives.

Many political juggernauts in the APC, will not agree to be given the back seat for the next five years they are going to be there. So the ADC will have to put it’s house in order, and do the right thing, whatever it is. Because certainly politicians will look for alternative platforms.

Love him or hate him, President Bola Tinubu and the APC were able to manage various power blocs, egos and interests efficiently and effectively when they were in opposition. President Tinubu played the long game for 15 years building political structures, network and consolidating to get to where he is.

Furthermore, timing is a critical success factor and I would like to share some strategic perspective in ghat regard, for the ADC. Let’s go back and look at the timelines:

Now we are in January, 2026, we are counting down to 2027. If we may recall 2023-2024, when APC was formed during the merger. By March 2013, two clear years agreed of the 2015 general elections, when the legacy parties have agreed to merge, the APC had taken a clear position on zoning, by zoning the presidency was zoned to northern Nigeria. That is very critical. Secondly, by November 2013, they had in their kitty a total of 16 incumbent governors, including the PDP governors that joined the legacy party governors, like the governors Adams Oshiomole (ACN), Tanko Almakura(CPC), Kashim Shettima (ANPP), Ibrahim Gaidam (ANPP), Rochas Okorocha (APGA), all Governor of South West Nigeria (ACN), and 5 Governors that defected PDP to APC. In the January, APC and had over 170 incumbent legislators in the Senate end house of representatives at the National Assembly and majority of the members of the state house of assembly in those 16 states.

By 2014, the narration, messaging, and strategy of the APC were clear. And they had already started getting the attention of Nigerians.

Currently, we are in January, 2026 about 1 year to the 2027 general elections, but the ADC yet to be clear about the zoning of the Presidency. And the dramatis Personae in the ADC are busy with the “me, me, me” mentality. What will happen to ADC is in its hands. How the ADC leaders work in the next three to four weeks to come out with a position to show clearly to Nigerians, first of all, that they have the clarity and unanimity of purpose. Secondly, they have alignment of visions and objectives for Nigerians, and then to the messaging. By June 2026, , if in the next two months, the ADC remains indecisive, it may not be a competitive party in the 2027 general elections, and because of that, the crises ‘ of trust and confidence will ensue with the domino effect that may scatter the political party before it’s foundation and pillars are even firmly in place.

Sun Tzu, the great military strategist, stated that, “Victorious warriors win first and then go to war, while defeated warriors go to war first and then seek to win”. Therefore, any political party that wants win elections and exist for long, must be prepared to be united, proactive, consistent, consolidated, financially capable, and effective. For instance, in the United States of America, power shifts between the Republican Party , Democratic Party, etc . In the United Kingdom, the Conservative Party and the Labor Party, etc.

My parting words for the opposition political figures; United you stand, divided you fragment your votes and make it easy for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to coast into his second term. The rhetorical question is, “Will the politicians in the ADC rise above their selfish and/ or parochial interested to actually do the needful?” Your answers are as good as mine.

January 30, 2026
ADC disowns planned southwest zonal exco inauguration

Cracks have emerged within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following the circulation of a notice announcing the inauguration of a new South West zonal executive, a move the party’s national leadership has dismissed as unauthorized.

The controversy centres on a purported inauguration of the South West Chairman, Rahman Owokoniran, and other zonal executives, scheduled for January 31, 2026, in Ibadan, Oyo State.

An invitation for the event listed the Oyo State Chairman of the party, Yinka Olona, as host.

However, the ADC national secretariat swiftly disowned the planned event, describing it as part of ongoing power play and internal manoeuvring within the opposition party.

Reacting on Thursday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, dismissed the inauguration in a disclaimer issued via his official X platform, making it clear that the exercise did not have the approval or backing of the national leadership.

Read Also: Hussein faults ADC leadership, berates Aregbesola over ‘undemocratic’ comments

“This is to inform the general public that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has not appointed any South West Chairman. Furthermore, the ADC is not inaugurating any South West Chairman at this time.

“The public is therefore advised to take note of this information and exercise caution regarding any claims or activities suggesting otherwise,” the NPS tweeted.

Party sources said the development reflects unresolved internal disagreements within the ADC over leadership structures and authority, particularly at the sub-national level.

The ADC, which has attracted a coalition of politicians opposed to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has in recent months been working to consolidate its internal organs ahead of future political engagements.

However, the latest episode suggests that internal coordination challenges persist in some regions.

As of the time of filing this report, no further clarification had been issued by the organisers of the proposed inauguration, while the national leadership maintained that only activities sanctioned by the party’s recognised structures remain valid.

January 29, 2026
ADC regroups, cautions against internal divisions

Leaders and supporters of the African Democratic Congress ADC have renewed calls for unity and collective action ahead of the 2027 general elections.

They warned that internal divisions amongst the opposition are weakening the effort to present a credible alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The appeal was made in Abuja yesterday during the public presentation of The Loyalist, a book authored by the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi.

The event, which drew a cross-section of politicians, became a rallying-point for opposition figures seeking to reposition the ADC as a formidable platform.

Among those in attendance were: one-time Vice President, Atiku Abubakar; former Senate President David Mark; former governors Rauf Aregbesola (Osun); Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers); Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti); Peter Obi (Anambra); Lyel Imoke (Cross River) and Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara), as well as former House of Representatives Speaker and his deputy, Aminu Tambuwal and Emeka Ihedioha.

Also present were former APC National Chairman John Oyegun, former NBA President Olumide Akpata and other political leaders.

Abdullahi warned that while Nigerians were ready for change, the political class had not yet demonstrated the unity required to deliver it.

He said: “For 2027, Nigerians are ready. But I don’t think we are ready. We are not coming together enough. We are not holding hands enough.

“Nigerians look at us; they see different enclaves and different entities. They see competition rather than cooperation.”

He said the visible divisions among opposition actors were eroding public confidence and weakening the prospects of collective success.

“Abdullahi admitted his blunt comments had drawn backlash online but insisted he would not be silenced.

“I know I am talking myself into trouble again. I have been under fire in the last three days by some of the passionate supporters on Twitter. But I will keep saying this, because Nigeria, this country, has no substitute, has no alternative.”

Describing Nigeria as irreplaceable, he urged political leaders to rise above factional rivalries and focus on national renewal, citing personal encounters with ordinary citizens as evidence of growing public expectations.

“I beg you, our leaders, Nigerians are waiting; they know you, what they are saying is ‘You people must not fail.’ That’s what I get everywhere I have gone. I’m sure you also get it.”

According to him, such encounters reflect the hope many Nigerians have invested in emerging coalitions and the ADC platform, appealing to party members to direct their energy toward unity rather than internal rivalry.

“I am making this appeal, please, come together more. Let our followers direct their passion into the ADC. Let them know there is only one party, and our mission is bigger than anything, any individual or individual ambition. This is why I’m begging,” he said.

Atiku, who was the Special Guest of Honour, said the book challenges Nigerians to rethink loyalty in public life.

Noting that loyalty in politics differs from the rigid obedience demanded in military service, he said: “I want to commend the author for gifting us a work that dares to question loyalties, illuminate conscience, and broaden our public imagination.

“So, I ask, why does this book matter to all of us? The Loyalist invites us to examine loyalty, to country, community, institutions, and to our own moral compass vis-à-vis personal loyalty, especially in a time of rapid change and competing narratives.”

Warning that loyalty must never become a tool of exclusion, he said: “Loyalty should strengthen the common goal, not narrow the circle of belonging, he noted.”

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Aregbesola dismissed claims that defections to the APC signalled its growing dominance.

“Something is going on that is worrisome… The fact that certain governors are defecting to the APC shows that our unity is weakened. I laugh because recent statistics in Nigeria, based on the last election, do not support this belief.”

Arguing that governors do not determine electoral outcomes, he said: “The results of these two zones clearly show that governors do not win elections, the people do. What we require from the government in charge of the election is a commitment to a free and fair process.”

Mark, described the mission to rescue Nigeria as collective and praised Abdullahi’s patriotism.

Fayemi said the book exposes the hidden realities and compromises of politics and urged leaders to abandon what he called “pleasant fiction” about power and values.

Fayemi stressed that the book should not be read merely as an exposé of Abdullahi’s relationship with former Senate President Bukola Saraki, but as a broader reflection on power, mentorship, loyalty and ambition.

He said the work offers hope for a better Nigeria, noting that “Abdullahi’s political vision reflects a belief that “another Nigeria is possible.

The book reviewer, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, described it as a rare and compelling account of power, loyalty and courage in Nigeria’s political life, urging Nigerians to reflect deeply on its lessons.

January 29, 2026
ADC tasks Oyegun, Utomi, Lukman with policy, manifesto

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has assigned former All Progressives Congress (APC) national chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, Prof. Pat Utomi and former APC National Vice Chairman (North West), Salihu Lukman, to lead the development of its policy document and manifesto ahead of 2027 elections.

The trio will head a 50-member Policy and Manifesto Committee approved by the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) and endorsed by the ADC National Chairman, Senator David Mark.

The party stated that the committee, scheduled for inauguration on Monday, is mandated to articulate a clear policy direction and produce a manifesto addressing key national issues, including governance, economic management, social development, security, and democratic reform.

In a statement on Wednesday, the ADC, through its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said Odigie-Oyegun will serve as Chairman, with Utomi as Deputy Chairman and Lukman as Secretary.

Other members of the committee include former Bauchi State APC governorship candidate, Air Vice Marshal Sadique Abubakar (rtd), Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, Dr Usman Bugaje, Prof. Anthony Kila, Pastor Funke Awowolo, Madam Jumoke Olawuyi and Prof. Sam Amadi, among others.

According to the party, committee members were drawn from diverse professional and political backgrounds, including former public office holders, academics, technocrats, policy experts and civil society leaders.

The Nation reports that Abdullahi said earlier that the delay in the composition of the committee was due to internal political considerations.

“You think it’s just about putting some names together, but people begin to look at how many Christians, how many Muslims, how many people from different regions,” he said, adding that the process reflected the political realities involved.

January 28, 2026
ADC regroups, seeks united front as Aregbesola downplays defection momentum

Leaders and supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have renewed calls for unity and collective action ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that internal divisions within the opposition are weakening the effort to present a credible alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The appeal was made in Abuja on Tuesday during the public presentation of The Loyalist, a book authored by the National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, Bolaji Abdullahi.

The event drew a cross-section of political heavyweights and became a rallying point for opposition figures seeking to reposition the ADC as a unifying platform.

Among those in attendance were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President David Mark, former governors Rauf Aregbesola, Rotimi Amaechi, Kayode Fayemi, Peter Obi, Lyel Imoke, and Abdulfatah Ahmed, as well as former Speaker of the House of Representatives and his deputy, Aminu Tambuwal and Emeka Ihedioha.

Also present were former APC National Chairman John Oyegun, former NBA President Tayo Akpata, and other political leaders.

Speaking after the formal presentation, Abdullahi warned that while Nigerians were ready for change, the political class had not yet demonstrated the unity required to deliver it.

“For 2027, Nigerians are ready. But I don’t think we are ready. We are not coming together enough. We are not holding hands enough. Nigerians look at us; they see different enclaves and different entities. They see competition rather than cooperation.”

He said the visible divisions among opposition actors were eroding public confidence and weakening the prospects of collective success. Abdullahi admitted his blunt comments had drawn backlash online but insisted he would not be silenced.

“I know I am talking myself into trouble again. I have been under fire in the last three days by some of the passionate supporters on Twitter. But I will keep saying this, because Nigeria, this country, has no substitute, has no alternative.”

Describing Nigeria as irreplaceable, he urged political leaders to rise above factional rivalries and focus on national renewal, citing personal encounters with ordinary citizens as evidence of growing public expectations.

“I beg you, our leaders, Nigerians are waiting, they know you, what they are saying is ‘You people must not fail.’ That’s what I get everywhere I have gone. I’m sure you also get it.”

According to him, such encounters reflect the hope many Nigerians have invested in emerging coalitions and the ADC platform, appealing to party members to direct their energy toward unity rather than internal rivalry.

“I am making this appeal, please, come together more. Let our followers direct their passion into the ADC. Let them know there is only one party, and our mission is bigger than anything, any individual or individual ambition. This is what I’m begging.”

Understanding the need for cohesion within the party, he stressed the significance of the book launch to the large gathering of members, noting that even if the event achieved nothing beyond fostering unity, it would still be worthwhile.

“So it is my hope that if this is the only thing that this gathering this afternoon is able to achieve, Alhamdulillah.”

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the Special Guest of Honour, said the book challenges Nigerians to rethink loyalty in public life.

Noting that loyalty in politics differs from the rigid obedience demanded in military service, he said, “I want to commend the author for gifting us a work that dares to question loyalties, illuminate conscience, and broaden our public imagination.

“So I ask, why does this book matter to all of us? The Loyalist invites us to examine loyalty, to country, community, institutions, and to our own moral compass vis-à-vis personal loyalty, especially in a time of rapid change and competing narratives.”

Atiku disclosed that loyalty had come at great personal cost, stressing, “Many of us here, particularly Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, and myself have suffered because of loyalty. I have personally faced exile as a result of loyalty. I have survived assassination attempts as a result of loyalty.”

He warned that loyalty must never become a tool of exclusion: “Loyalty should strengthen the common goal, not narrow the circle of belonging, he noted.”

ADC Secretary and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola dismissed claims that defections to the APC signalled its growing dominance.

“Something is going on that is worrisome… The fact that certain governors are defecting to the APC shows that our unity is weakened. I laugh because recent statistics in Nigeria, based on the last election, do not support this belief.”

Arguing that governors do not determine electoral outcomes, he said, “The results of these two zones clearly show that governors do not win elections, the people do. What we require from the government in charge of the election is a commitment to a free and fair process.”

ADC National Chairman and former Senate President, David Mark, described the mission to rescue Nigeria as collective and praised Abdullahi’s patriotism.

Read Also: Accord, APC, ADC ready for battle

“Mission to rescue Nigeria is collective. Bolaji is a straightforward person; he is a committed Nigerian, very patriotic,” he said, while also clearing misconceptions surrounding the Doctrine of Necessity that enabled Dr. Goodluck Jonathan to assume office as Acting President after the crisis that followed the death of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.

According to him, the decision was taken solely by the Senate under his leadership and had no connection whatsoever to any interests or influence from Kwara State.

“The doctrine of necessity is the sole responsibility of the Senate and has nothing to do with Kwara State or anyone from Kwara State,” he affirmed.

Former Ekiti State governor, Kayode Fayemi, said the book exposes the hidden realities and compromises of politics and urged leaders to abandon what he called “pleasant fiction” about power and values.

Fayemi stressed that the book should not be read merely as an exposé of Abdullahi’s relationship with former Senate President Bukola Saraki, but as a broader reflection on power, mentorship, loyalty, and ambition.

He said the work offers hope for a better Nigeria, noting that “Abdullahi’s political vision reflects a belief that ‘another Nigeria is possible.

“For anyone interested in Nigeria, its politics, and the myths around godfatherism and power, this book recommends itself”.

Reviewer of the book, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, described it as a rare and compelling account of power, loyalty, and courage in Nigeria’s political life, urging Nigerians to reflect deeply on its lessons.

January 27, 2026
Stop preaching division, exceptionality, ADC warns Atiku, Obi, Amaechi supporters

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has warned supporters of presidential aspirants to stop preaching division and exceptionality, ahead of its June primaries.

National Publicity Secretary of the party, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, gave the warning while speaking on a live audio conversation on X (formerly Twitter) on the state of the nation and polity, yesterday in Abuja.

Abdullahi also said that holding the 2027 general elections in 2026 as proposed would offer a double-edged sword for ADC, stressing that the party would struggle to heal wounds.

He, however, pointed out that an early election would, on the other hand work for ADC. According to him, Nigerians are tired of the present administration.

Abdullahi said that he had engaged with former Vice-Present Atiku Abubakar and former Governors Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi and Nasir El-Rufai on the need for strengthening unity in the party before the forthcoming general elections.

“I spent time talking to Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi and Nasir El-Rufai on uniting the party and improving Nigeria.

“Our leaders are aware of the task ahead, and every one of them is committed to ensuring that we win this election together resolutely,” he said.

On the proposal for the 2027 general elections, Abdullahi said, “Whether elections hold this year or next year, it will work for and against us as opposition.

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“Let me also say this, those supporting divisiveness by aspirants should stop because they are working to the advantage of the APC.

“Saying it is either this candidate or nothing is not helpful; winning the election matters, and divisiveness cannot deliver victory for the party.

“We believe all aspirants are qualified; vilifying anyone or any region is unhelpful and complicates efforts to strengthen unity within the party ahead of elections.

“We will ignore people creating exceptionality and focus on our work because we want to win these elections credibly, peacefully, inclusively nationwide together as one.

“Those shouting Peter Obi or nothing are not helping him; they preach division, limit outreach and harden positions needed for victory across regions and supporters,” he stated.

The ADC spokesman said the party was taking the forthcoming FCT area council elections seriously, following its poor performance in the Anambra off-season poll and desired to make a statement with the FCT elections.

He also expressed concern that some state governments were compelling civil servants with National Identification Numbers to register as their party members.

January 25, 2026
ADC lacks direction, unity, political future – Alawuje

A chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Honourable Abdulhakeem Adegoke Alawuje, has described the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a coalition that lacks direction, unity, and a clear political future, amid growing internal tensions within opposition ranks.

In a press statement issued on Thursday, Alawuje said the ADC had become a “political gathering going nowhere,” arguing that the party was gripped by panic, suspicion, and internal unrest.

He said that although members of the party appeared eager for political movement, they lacked a shared destination, ideological compass, or common vision to guide their actions.

According to him, what exists within the ADC is not genuine unity but what he called a “forced marriage of incompatible interests,” made up of groups fundamentally opposed to one another but pretending to be allies.

Read Also: ADC coalition built on contradictions, personal ambitions — Alawuje

He argued that such an arrangement, in his view, could not deliver peace, stability, or progress, describing the party as a collection of unsettled rivals competing against themselves rather than a coherent political family.

Alawuje further claimed that none of the party’s leading figures enjoyed real political harmony or ideological compatibility, a situation he said had deepened internal contradictions and weakened cohesion.

He cited recent developments within the ADC as evidence of confusion, alleging that some leaders were scrambling for relevance following the exit or decline of key political figures, while others were now seeking positions and benefits they had previously opposed.

The statement said this contradiction had defined the ADC’s politics and exposed what he described as its lack of clarity about its real target, whether President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as an individual or the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a political institution.

Alawuje said the uncertainty had weakened the opposition’s messaging, strategy, and credibility, while portraying President Tinubu as a resilient and strategic democratic figure and the APC as the most organized and prepared political party in the country.

He concluded by urging opposition elements, in the interest of national unity and stability, to allow President Tinubu complete his constitutional second term, arguing that internal confusion within the ADC reflected a deeper fear of the APC’s growing dominance.

January 22, 2026
Crisis rocks Atiku’s coalition-backed ADC in Ondo as ‘self-acclaimed’ chairman demands reinstatement
- …accuses party’s national chair of alleged constitutional breach
- …He was suspended for anti-party activities, says spokesman
The coalition-backed African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ondo state has been plunged into a leadership crisis following the demand by its suspended chairman, Olaide Ibraheem, for reinstatement as the authentic state chairman of the party.

Ibraheem, who claimed he was duly elected through a valid state congress, has also threatened to drag the party’s national leadership, sponsored by opposition leader Atiku Abubakar, to court should his demand not be met.

But the spokesman for the ADC in the state, Olurotimi Ebiola, has faulted Mr Ibraheem’s allegation, accusing him of anti-party activities.

Addressing journalists on Tuesday in Akure, Ibraheem said he emerged as the state chairman of ADC during a congress held on October 7, 2020, which he noted was conducted in the presence of some security agencies.

He argued that no other state congress had been held since his emergence, adding that he single-handedly funded the party’s activities in the state during his tenure due to the absence of political office holders or subventions from both the state and national level.

According to him, the affairs of the party were run strictly in line with the ADC constitution.

Read Also: Atiku vows to build strong ADC opposition in Bauchi

Ibraheem alleged that he was removed from office on November 28, 2024, by the National Chairman of the party, Mr Raphael Nwosu, in what he described as an “embarrassing and unconstitutional manner.”

He argued that the ADC constitution does not empower the National Chairman to remove a duly elected state chairman, accusing Nwosu of acting ultra vires by dissolving state and local government executives without due process.

“The action violated the principle of party supremacy as enshrined in Article 2 of the party’s constitution,” he said.

The embattled chairman said he initially refrained from making the matter public in the hope that party elders would intervene but lamented that no corrective steps had been taken.

He further accused the national leadership of ignoring Article 18 of the party’s constitution by failing to convene a congress before taking actions capable of throwing the Ondo State chapter into crisis.

Ibraheem warned that failure to reinstate him and other affected state and local government executives within 14 days would force them to explore other lawful means to seek redress.

He called on the national leadership of the ADC to urgently restore constitutional order to prevent a deeper internal crisis in the state chapter.

Reacting, the spokesman for the party in Ondo State, Olurotimi Eniola, dismissed Ibraheem’s claims, describing him as a former interim chairman who was expelled from the party for alleged anti-party activities.

Eniola said Ibraheem no longer belonged to the ADC, adding that he lacked a valid membership card.

“He was truly a former interim chairman, but he was expelled by the national leadership for anti-party activities. After that, he left the party, and since then, two chairmen have come and gone.

“Up till now, he has not had a party membership card. If he wants to go to court, he is free to do so, but as far as the party is concerned, he is no longer a member,” Eniola said.
January 20, 2026
APC, Accord, ADC, and permutations ahead of Osun 2026 race

After party primaries ended on December 15, 2025, as set by the INEC, preparations began for the August 8, 2026, off-cycle governorship election in Osun State. Correspondent Toba Adedeji gives an overview of the political contest.

The selection of governorship candidates in Osun State has changed the landscape ahead of the 2026 election. As a result, stakeholders and supporters are now forming alliances and building grassroots support for what looks to be a closely contested race to decide who will lead from the Bola Ige House for the next four years.

Meanwhile, in 2025, major opposition parties in the state, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and Allied Peoples Movement (APM), began seeking credible candidates to represent them in the election, a move that sparked political stirrings.

APC and emergence of Oyebamiji:

Within the APC, calls grew stronger to zone the governorship ticket to the Osun West Senatorial District, especially if the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, chose not to run again. Political leaders and groups from the district pushed hard for this consideration.

Oyetola later withdrew from the race, which allowed nine aspirants to compete for the party’s governorship ticket.

Those who aspired for the APC ticket include: Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji, former Managing Director of NIWA (Ikire, Osun West); Iyiola Omisore, former Deputy Governor (Ile-Ife, Osun East); Prince Dotun Babayemi (Gbongan, Osun West); Benedict Alabi, former Deputy Governor (Ikire, Osun West); Dr Akin Ogunbiyi, insurance magnate (Ile-Oogbo, Osun West); Kunle Adegoke, SAN (Osogbo, Osun Central); Senator Babajide Omoworare (Ile-Ife, Osun East); Dr Mulikat Jimoh, former Osun House of Assembly member (Ikirun, Osun Central); and Babatunde Hareter Oralusi (Ile-Ife, Osun East).

After the screening, only Oyebamiji and Dr Mulikat Jimoh, the only female aspirant, were cleared to contest the primary. This caused tension within the party until President Bola Ahmed Tinubu intervened.

Eventually, a consensus was reached, and Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (popularly known as AMBO) was presented as the APC governorship candidate on December 13, 2025.

Since Oyebamiji became the candidate, the party has experienced some tension. Omisore openly expressed his dissatisfaction, accusing Oyetola of supporting Oyebamiji and utilising party resources to aid him.

Later, party leaders held a reconciliation meeting at Chief Bisi Akande’s home in December 2025. All aspirants were told to join forces within the APC to help the party win. The State Working Committee also encouraged the eight aspirants to unite and work together before the election.

The party said that Oyebamiji’s selection unsettled the ruling party. Through the Director of Media, Chief Kola Olabisi, and APC Chairman Tajudeen Lawal, they praised the aspirants for accepting the result without bitterness.

Lawal also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Chief Akande, Alhaji Oyetola, the Agba Osun Caucus, and other stakeholders whose interventions ensured a seamless primary.

Olabisi said the peaceful primary proved wrong those who predicted problems and showed the party’s unity. He also said that aspirants who put the party first would be remembered well in the party’s history.

He encouraged party members to work together as a strong, united team in the August 8, 2026, election, aiming to win back power from Governor Ademola Adeleke.

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Strengths of the APC:

One of the APC’s main strengths is its unity since losing power in 2022. Except for former Governor Rauf Aregbesola, who was expelled with his allies for alleged anti-party activities, the party has not lost any major figures to the ruling party.

On the contrary, APC has gained prominent politicians from the PDP, including Senators Francis Fadahunsi (Osun East) and Olubiyi Fadeyi (Osun Central); House of Representatives members, Oluwole Oke, Sanya Omirin, and Taofeek Ajilesoro; and former PDP National Deputy Chairman, Chief Shuaib Oyedokun.

The party also boasts influential leaders across the nine federal constituencies, including Senator Ajibola Basiru, APC National Secretary; Engr. Olalekan Badmus in Osogbo; Kayode Oduoye in Ikirun; Oyetola in Iragbiji; Chief Akande and Fadeyi in Ila-Orangun; Babayemi in Gbongan; and Oyebamiji in Ikire.

APC’s weaknesses:

A main concern for the APC is that reconciliation may not be complete, especially with disqualified aspirants like Omisore, who may not fully support the party’s success.

Also, if the party does not choose a strong deputy governorship candidate from important towns like Osogbo or Ile-Ife, its chances could be hurt.

The APC may also face challenges in Ede North and South, Governor Adeleke’s hometown, and in local governments such as Egbedore, Orolu, Iwo, Ayedire, Odo-Otin, and Ola-Oluwa, where the current governor has invested heavily in infrastructure.

Adeleke’s chances:

In the lead-up to its planned primary in 2025, PDP chairman Sunday Bisi said internal problems made it impossible to hold the event. He explained that Governor Adeleke’s participation would depend on whether the crisis was resolved within INEC’s timeline, which shaped the party’s immediate strategy.

Consequently, Adeleke left the PDP for the Accord Party, taking with him members of his cabinet and political appointees. As the only aspirant, he became the Accord Party’s governorship candidate and promised to seek a second term.

Accord’s strengths:

The Accord Party’s main strength lies in its successful merger with the PDP structure. Furthermore, while Adeleke has revived the party, Accord also benefits from its position on the ballot, which comes before the APC.

Adeleke’s position as governor, his influence in the civil service, focus on workers’ welfare, promotions, and payment of salary arrears have made him more popular. His work on infrastructure in Ede, Ilesa, Osogbo, Ila-Orangun, Iwo, and other areas is also likely to win votes.

Most PDP members remain loyal to Adeleke, and he also has support from Senator Lere Oyewumi, six House of Representatives members, and 23 state lawmakers. This further improves his chances.

Accord’s weaknesses:

A big weakness is that many voters, especially in rural areas, do not know much about the party’s ideology. Many still link Adeleke to the PDP and may not be aware that he has switched parties.

The party’s weak grassroots structure is another challenge, so it must depend on the PDP networks it inherited. Some PDP loyalists may also refuse to back Adeleke because of their loyalty to the party.

Aregbesola’s ADC:

At the same time, former Governor Rauf Aregbesola, now the ADC’s National Secretary, is another key player in the race. He and his allies left the APC in 2025 after being expelled for alleged anti-party activities, adding a new dynamic to the competition.

The ADC has been mobilising support with figures such as former Speaker Najeem Salam, former SSG Moshood Adeoti, Senator Adelere Oriolowo, and former APC chairmen Razaq Salinsile and Adelowo Adebiyi.

However, the ADC faced a setback when Adeoti left, citing dissatisfaction with the group’s internal governance. He left after reports that Salam had been selected as the preferred candidate in a mini-election among the group’s leaders in Lagos, where he received 11 out of 15 votes.

Adeoti’s exit could weaken the ADC due to his political influence and past support for Aregbesola’s victories. Still, Salam became the party’s governorship candidate.

PDP as a potential game-changer:

Even after Adeleke left, the PDP chose Adebayo Adedamola, an ally of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, as its governorship candidate. If INEC accepts this nomination, the PDP could split votes that might have gone to Adeleke, making the race more complicated.

January 18, 2026
ADC warns against fake membership registration links

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has alerted the public to a wave of fraudulent online platforms and social media accounts falsely claiming to offer official membership registration for the party.

In an official statement on Sunday, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party’s national publicity secretary, clarified that the party has not launched any public online membership registration link.

The Nation reports that the party last week inaugurated its Membership Revalidation, Mobilization, and Registration (MRMR) Committee, tasked with overhauling the party’s membership base, strengthening grassroots structures, and harmonizing records nationwide.

The 20-member committee, chaired by Kashim Imam, includes former House of Representatives member Hon. Sekonte Davies, Nollywood actress Mina Horsfall, Professor of Pure and Applied Mathematics Festus Arunaye, Obidient Movement spokesman Tanko Yusuf, activist and Obidient Movement chieftain Aisha Yesufu, and Labour Party former governorship candidate Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, among others.

The NPS emphasised that the party is still developing an official registration and verification platform, which will be formally announced through verified party channels in due course.

Abdullahi warned that the party “will never request payments or sensitive personal information via unofficial links, WhatsApp messages, direct messages, or third-party websites.”

He urged the public to exercise caution by avoiding suspicious links, not sharing unverified registration messages, and refraining from submitting personal details, including names, phone numbers, PVC information, BVN, or payment data on any unverified platform.

The party further advised that any suspicious links should be reported through official ADC communication channels.

Abdullahi stressed that all legitimate ADC announcements, including the launch of the official membership registration platform, will only be communicated through verified ADC platforms and formal statements from the party leadership.

He said the party is actively addressing the circulation of fake links and will take all necessary measures to protect the public and maintain the integrity of the party.

January 11, 2026