ADC alleges systematic suppression of opposition ahead of 2027 elections

Michael Olumide

National Publicity Secretary, African Democratic Congress (ADC), Bolaji Abdullahi, has raised alarm over what he described as a coordinated effort to weaken opposition parties across Nigeria, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to the country’s democratic future ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during an interview on a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM in Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State, Abdullahi alleged that the ongoing leadership crisis within the ADC is part of a broader political strategy targeting major opposition platforms, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party, Social Democratic Party (SDP), and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).

Abdullahi warned that recent developments across political parties point to a deliberate attempt to weaken opposition structures and limit electoral competition.

“All these things you are seeing are meant to achieve a particular end — to ensure that by 2027 there will be only one candidate on the ballot,” he said.

According to him, the pattern of internal crises affecting opposition parties is not coincidental but part of a coordinated political agenda designed to consolidate power.

“This is not accidental; it is systematic and dangerous for democracy,” he stressed.

Abdullahi argued that the leadership crisis involving factional figure Nafiu Bala is merely a symptom of a larger effort to destabilise the ADC at a time when the party is gaining national relevance.

He maintained that the ADC’s growing influence as a platform for ordinary Nigerians has made it a target.

“We know Nigerians have rejected them, and that is why they are doing all this,” he said, alleging that political actors are uncomfortable with the party’s rising appeal.

Kwankwaso’s Entry and Rising Profile
The ADC spokesman traced the escalation of the crisis to the defection of former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Kwankwaso, whose entry into the party significantly boosted its political standing.

“When Kwankwaso joined ADC, it sent shockwaves across the political landscape,” Abdullahi said.

He added that the party’s emergence as a viable political force triggered intensified efforts by rival interests to undermine its structure.

“The moment we became a real force, some people wanted to neutralise us,” he stated.

Despite the internal turmoil, Abdullahi revealed that the ADC continues to attract increasing support nationwide, with over one million Nigerians reportedly registering as members.

He described the surge as evidence of public dissatisfaction with the status quo and a growing demand for credible alternatives in Nigeria’s political space.

“These are citizens who are tired of the current system and are seeking real change,” he said.

Abdullahi also aimed at the federal government, accusing it of prioritising political control over addressing pressing national issues such as insecurity.

He referenced recent violent incidents in parts of the country, including Benue and Kaduna, as examples of governance failures.

“Is this the kind of leadership Nigerians want to continue?” he queried, criticising what he described as inadequate responses to national crises.

Amid concerns about political interference, Abdullahi expressed cautious optimism in Nigeria’s judiciary, describing it as a critical institution in safeguarding democracy.

“There are still courts in Nigeria that understand their responsibility to democracy,” he said, adding that the ADC remains confident in the legal process.

Abdullahi concluded by calling on Nigerians to remain vigilant and to support the strengthening of opposition parties as essential pillars of democracy.

“This is not about ADC alone; it is about Nigeria’s democracy itself,” he said.

He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to political participation and accountability, insisting that it would not be intimidated by external pressures.

As political tensions rise ahead of the 2027 elections, Abdullahi’s remarks underscore growing concerns about the health of Nigeria’s multiparty system.

With allegations of interference, rising opposition movements, and ongoing legal battles, the unfolding developments within the ADC and other parties may prove pivotal in shaping the country’s democratic trajectory in the years ahead.