2027: Ohanaeze Ndigbo Hails ADC Coalition for saving Nigeria from sliding into one-party state

The Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has applauded the recent adoption of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) by Nigeria’s opposition coalition, describing it as a significant step in halting the country’s drift toward a one-party system.

In a joint press statement released on Friday by factional Deputy President-General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro and Chief Thompson Ohia, Ohanaeze noted that the coalition’s move has rendered crisis-mongers—previously engaged to undermine opposition parties such as the PDP, LP, SDP, and APGA—irrelevant. The emergence of ADC as a formidable contender has unsettled their political benefactors.

The group urged the federal government to wake from its “complacent slumber” and take decisive action to accelerate Nigeria’s economic recovery. They put President Bola Tinubu on notice, calling for a critical review of his administration’s policies and the performance of ministers, especially in key sectors like the economy, security, agriculture, health, and rural development.

While acknowledging progress in road infrastructure and policies within the Federal Capital Territory under Ministers David Umahi and Nyesom Wike, Ohanaeze emphasized the need for a Cabinet reshuffle focused on evidence-based reforms led by respected economists and technocrats rather than political loyalty. This, they said, is essential to restore public confidence and repair the damaged economy.

They also urged President Tinubu to view the ADC’s rise not as a threat, but as an opportunity to recalibrate governance strategies, warning that ignoring the people’s needs could have dire consequences for his administration.

However, Ohanaeze cautioned that many ADC coalition leaders bear responsibility for Nigeria’s hardships over the past decade under APC rule, accusing about 80% of them of prioritizing personal ambitions over national interest.

The statement further revealed intelligence suggesting that some Northern governors may defect to the ADC ahead of the 2027 elections, driven by political pressures and dissatisfaction within the ruling APC. It warned that the Northern region could undermine President Tinubu’s re-election if he displaces Vice President Kashim Shettima with another Northern candidate.

Concluding, Ohanaeze stressed the urgency for President Tinubu to confront his administration’s shortcomings and adjust his strategies to better serve Nigerians.