Dele Momodu, a prominent publisher and member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has criticized the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for allegedly undermining opposition parties. Momodu stated that the APC is anxious about the upcoming 2027 general election and is attempting to create divisions within opposition parties. He made these comments on a breakfast show, suggesting that the APC’s goal is to eliminate strong competition and potentially have all parties endorse a single candidate, specifically the President.
The ADC has recently been at the center of controversy, with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recognizing the party’s national working committee led by former Senate President David Mark and ex-Osun governor Rauf Aregbesola as secretary. This decision has sparked debate among politicians, with some ADC members threatening to take the matter to court. Momodu expressed little surprise at the backlash, noting that the move was expected given the party’s efforts to navigate government interference.
According to Momodu, the APC has a history of creating factions within opposition parties, citing examples such as the Labour Party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). He emphasized that the ADC’s conveners worked diligently behind the scenes to establish a strong foundation, anticipating potential attempts by government agents to disrupt their efforts.
The recognition of the Mark-led ADC faction by INEC has significant implications for the party’s future and its role in the 2027 election. As the controversy unfolds, it remains to be seen how the situation will be resolved and what impact it will have on the electoral landscape. With opposition parties already voicing concerns about government interference, the development is likely to further exacerbate tensions between the ruling party and opposition factions. The upcoming election is expected to be highly contested, and the ADC’s internal dynamics will be closely watched in the lead-up to the polls.
