The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a strong warning against the imposition of political candidates and unchecked influence by wealthy elites in Nigeria’s electoral processes, calling such practices detrimental to democracy. Key party figures, including National Deputy Publicity Secretary Dr. Effiong Nyong and Cross River State Chairman Dr. John Ogar, stressed these concerns during a gathering of new members and supporters in Calabar, framing the stance as critical to rebuilding public trust ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Nyong, the party’s 2023 gubernatorial candidate in Cross River, emphasized the ADC’s commitment to promoting electable, youth-oriented candidates over traditional backroom selections. “We will prioritize marketable and younger leaders capable of securing victories, rather than allowing elders to impose unelectable figures,” he stated. He further demanded accountability from Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), advocating for real-time transmission of election results to curb malpractice.
The party leadership also took aim at governance failures, with Nyong accusing Cross River Governor Bassey Otu’s administration of financial mismanagement and engaging in “dirty politics.” He linked these alleged practices to the state’s diminished representation in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet, which includes only a junior ministerial position despite Tinubu appointing a historically large number of ministers. “Why wasn’t Cross River given a replacement after losing Betta Edu’s ministerial slot?” Nyong questioned, referencing the suspended humanitarian affairs minister embroiled in a corruption scandal.
Ogar echoed the call for unity, urging stakeholders to rally behind the ADC’s vision for national renewal. “This coalition isn’t about personal gain but about rescuing Nigeria from leaders undermining its progress,” he said, encouraging widespread voter registration and grassroots mobilization. Former Nigerian Ports Authority Board Chairman Akin Ricketts bolstered the message, emphasizing the need to amplify the ADC’s reach: “Every member must act as an ambassador to grow our base.”
The ADC’s remarks spotlight simmering tensions over candidate selection and resource control in Nigerian politics, issues that have long fueled public disillusionment. With its focus on institutional reform and generational leadership shifts, the party aims to position itself as a viable alternative ahead of the next electoral cycle.
