A senior figure in Nigeria’s opposition has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of internal disarray, describing it as a party in “commotion” with leadership Fighting that undermines democratic principles.
Dele Momodu, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), made the remarks during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily programme on Wednesday. He asserted that the APC is projecting a false sense of unity while grappling with significant internal crises across several states.
Momodu pointed to recent political tensions in key regions, specifically citing Benue and Zamfara, as evidence of the party’s instability. “From Benue to Zamfara and so many other places, they are fighting themselves,” he stated, characterizing the disputes as a struggle for control within the party.
His most pointed criticism focused on the alleged dual allegiance of a prominent party leader, whom he claimed simultaneously holds leadership positions in both the APC and the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Momodu questioned President Bola Tinubu’s tolerance of this situation, framing it as antithetical to democratic norms. “Today, we have a party leader who controls two political parties at the same time and President Bola Tinubu is cool with that. Such a person is a leader of the APC and a leader of the PDP. Is that democracy?” he asked.
Momodu’s comments highlight the persistent narrative of factionalism within Nigeria’s dominant political parties. The APC, which came to power in 2015 after defeating the PDP, has previously faced public defections and primary election controversies that signaled deep-seated disagreements. His criticism arrives as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general election, with opposition groups attempting to consolidate against the APC.
The ADC chieftain’s remarks serve as an indicator of the opposition’s strategy to frame the ruling party as dysfunctional and unfit to govern. By focusing on internal conflicts and alleged ethical breaches, critics aim to erode public confidence in the APC’s stewardship.
The significance of such accusations lies in their potential to influence voter perception and coalition-building among opposition figures. In Nigeria’s competitive political landscape, narratives of instability in the ruling party often fuel efforts to forge a united front for future elections. Momodu’s interview contributes to this discourse, setting a stage for continued political debate on party discipline and democratic integrity in the country.
