The Presidency has dismissed the newly formed opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), urging its promoters to abandon hopes of unseating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027 and instead prepare for the 2031 elections.
The response follows a recent high-profile meeting in Abuja where leading opposition figures—including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Senate President David Mark, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, and ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai—unveiled the ADC as a platform to challenge Tinubu’s re-election bid.
Reacting to the development, Presidential spokesperson Sunday Dare described the coalition as a “gathering of opportunistic and disgruntled politicians” with no realistic chance of success.
Speaking in Abuja, Dare said: “The Presidency already rests with the region rightfully due. And that’s where it will remain until 2031. Those plotting otherwise are simply wasting their time.”
He argued that none of the opposition leaders in the coalition possesses the democratic track record or nationwide appeal of President Tinubu. According to him, the administration’s achievements over the last two years have already solidified Tinubu’s position for a second term.
“There is no injustice to redress—only personal ambition to control the national treasury,” Dare stated. “The coalition’s claims are rooted in self-interest, not national interest.”
He contrasted the current coalition with the 2013 merger that formed the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying the latter was driven by unity and selflessness.
“In 2013, leaders came together with a common goal and strategic discipline. Tinubu, despite his political influence, waited his turn and never forced his way in. Today’s coalition lacks that kind of leadership or credibility,” Dare said.
He concluded by dismissing the ADC platform as incapable of replicating the political momentum that brought APC to power in 2015.
- NNPC targets $30bn investment, unveils plan for new oil fields by 2030 - January 1, 2026
- Damage assessment of joint U.S.–Nigeria air strikes still underway — DHQ - January 1, 2026
- Six dead, four rescued in Lagos boat accident - January 1, 2026
