The African Democratic Congress (ADC) says it is restructuring itself as a disciplined and credible political force ahead of the 2027 general elections, aiming to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu.
Dele Momodu, a prominent figure within the ADC, told Arise News on Monday that the party is actively reviewing its constitution and forging alliances to strengthen its electoral position.
He stressed that these steps were intended to prevent the missteps that have historically weakened opposition movements in Nigeria.
“Coalitions are often seen as mere partnerships, but in this case, we intend to demonstrate equality and coherence among members.
”The ADC seeks to operate differently from other parties,” Momodu said.
He described Nigeria as facing widespread political uncertainty and called on the ADC to present a clear alternative to the APC.
“A relatively new party aspiring for national leadership must show that it is distinct from the ruling party.
”In the coming months, Nigerians will witness the level of discipline we are bringing into the party.
”This is unlike the current state of the APC, where standards are lax,” he added.
Momodu also indicated that the ADC was learning lessons from the APC’s tenure, noting that winning elections is only the first step.
“APC has shown us that holding power is not enough; how you use it matters.
”This is why we are emphasising strong governance structures, robust policies, and constitutional clarity,” he said.
On the party’s electoral prospects, Momodu warned that the ADC’s influence should not be underestimated.
He pointed to the combined support of leading opposition figures, including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, as a demonstration of the party’s strength.
“Any party housing two of the top three presidential contenders from the last election is a force to reckon with.
”The votes they command are substantial, and anyone ignoring that does so at their own risk,” he said.
Acknowledging competition within the party and its coalition partners, Momodu described rivalries as natural in a democratic system.
“Everyone believes they have a right to contend. Atiku feels he deserves the ticket, Peter Obi feels the same, and even Rotimi Amaechi has ambitions.
”Why would anyone run if they didn’t believe they could win?” he asked.
He expressed confidence that a single candidate would eventually emerge from the ADC primaries.
“There are many qualified individuals in our ranks, and one of them will secure the ticket. The others will rally behind the chosen candidate, ” he said.
Rejecting the idea of selecting a candidate by consensus, Momodu emphasised that primaries, not personal deals, would determine the party’s nominee.
“Consensus implies stepping down for someone else. We have not reached that stage,” he said, while noting that Atiku Abubakar remains his personal preference due to his extensive experience and political standing.
On strategy, Momodu insisted that success would depend on careful calculations and broad national appeal rather than regional sentiment or zoning considerations.
“The election should be treated mathematically. Emotions and sentiment must not dictate our choice. If done correctly, Tinubu can be defeated,” he stated.
He dismissed concerns over Atiku’s age, pointing out that similar scrutiny was not applied to President Tinubu and that the constitution does not require a rotational presidency.
Defending political party switches, Momodu described defections as legitimate and commonplace in Nigerian politics.
He reiterated that defeating the APC would require experienced leadership, unity, and effective alliances.
“Tinubu is formidable. To challenge him, you need leaders who have proven themselves,” he said.
