By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The African Democratic Congress (ADC), through its spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi, has declared that it will contest the 2027 general election in Nigeria. He made this statement on Tuesday during an interview on Politics Today. Abdullahi responded to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) decision to stop recognising the party’s leadership due to a court order. He stressed that the party remains committed to the electoral process despite ongoing legal challenges.
ADC Rejects Election Boycott
Abdullahi firmly dismissed calls for a boycott of the 2027 election. According to him, boycotting would amount to surrendering Nigeria’s democracy.
He argued that making headlines without participation would achieve nothing. Instead, he said the ADC carries the hopes of millions of Nigerians facing economic hardship.
Therefore, the party will remain actively involved in the electoral process.
Allegations Against Ruling Party
Abdullahi accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of weakening opposition parties. He claimed the ruling party has targeted groups like the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party, and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
According to him, these actions aim to create a one-party state. He also alleged that Bola Ahmed Tinubu wants to emerge as the only viable candidate in 2027.
However, Abdullahi insisted that Nigerians no longer support the ruling party.
Legal Battle Over ADC Leadership
The leadership dispute within ADC remains unresolved. In September 2025, Nafiu Gombe filed a lawsuit at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
He challenged the legitimacy of the party’s current leadership. Specifically, he opposed the roles of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola.
Gombe claimed he should have assumed leadership after Ralph Nwosu resigned. He also alleged that the resignation letter was forged.
Subsequently, INEC removed Mark and Aregbesola’s names from its official portal. The commission cited a court order to maintain the status quo.
ADC Insists Leadership Process Is Legal
Despite the dispute, Abdullahi maintained that the process that produced the current leadership was lawful.
He stated that the party followed due process, including notifying INEC 21 days before its congresses.
Furthermore, he criticised INEC for reversing its earlier position. He said the commission had previously acknowledged the leadership change in an affidavit.
Coalition Strategy Ahead of 2027
The ADC has positioned itself as a major opposition platform ahead of the 2027 election.
Notably, several prominent politicians have aligned with the party. These include Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, and Rabiu Kwankwaso.
Abdullahi emphasised that the coalition aims to challenge President Tinubu effectively.
Confidence in Judiciary
Abdullahi expressed confidence in Nigeria’s judiciary. He said the party expects a favourable ruling if the court grants an accelerated hearing.
While hoping for success, he noted that the ADC is also preparing for all possible outcomes.
ADC Vows to Defend Multiparty Democracy
Finally, Abdullahi warned against any attempt to turn Nigeria into a one-party state.
He stressed that the ADC will resist such efforts through lawful means. According to him, surrendering would undermine Nigeria’s democratic system.
