Veteran journalist and political commentator, Chief Dele Momodu, has urged the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to avoid internal divisions that could undermine its chances in Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. Momodu’s warning comes as the opposition party continues to grow in influence and attract key political figures ahead of the next presidential race.
Speaking recently about the state of the ADC, Momodu recalled attending a historic gathering of Nigeria’s opposition political parties in Abuja last year. At that meeting, several opposition groups came together to adopt the ADC as a common platform to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
“I was present when some members of Nigeria’s opposition political parties gathered in Abuja last year to adopt ADC as their new vehicle for driving out the ruling APC from power,” Momodu said. “I listened most keenly to the various speeches. No one forced anyone to join. The main conveners promised to make it an open party for all, and one that will uphold democratic tenets.”
He added that party leaders assured participants that no individual or faction would be allowed to create chaos, referencing past challenges in Nigeria’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Momodu also expressed his satisfaction at seeing respected figures like retired Army General David Mark serving as chairman, believing his leadership would ensure discipline within the party.
Momodu, who has been a vocal commentator on Nigerian politics for decades, stressed that the success of ADC depends on unity and internal discipline. “I was most elated hearing these beautiful words,” he said. “I was happy to see an Army veteran and General David Mark as Chairman knowing he would brook no nonsense.”
However, he warned that recent developments within the party show signs of internal friction. Some groups within the ADC have reportedly begun to assert dominance, demanding that they automatically produce the party’s top ticket without going through proper democratic processes.
“But in recent times, some groups have introduced aggression and rambunctiousness into a fledgling cooperation and collaboration of all,” Momodu said. “How can a coalition work if some groups insist they must produce the top ticket by donation and coronation, without election or persuasion? Why unleash tantrums and expletives on one another as if one group can win national elections without the others?”
Momodu’s caution is a clear reference to what he described as the “Wike scenario” in Nigeria’s PDP. He noted that Nyesom Wike, the former governor of Rivers State, wielded enormous influence within the PDP, which allowed him to dominate party structures and marginalize opposing voices.
“This is why, and when, ADC must rise up and enforce discipline before it is too late,” Momodu said. “This was how Nyesom Wike held PDP by the jugular till it became too late to be dislodged or expelled. ADC should be a party of love and not a Fuji house of commotion.”
The African Democratic Congress is one of Nigeria’s rising opposition parties. Formed in 2005, the party has grown in popularity in recent years, particularly among politicians and activists looking for alternatives to the two dominant parties, the APC and PDP. ADC positions itself as a party of inclusivity and democracy, offering a platform for various groups and individuals who seek to challenge the current government.
In recent months, the ADC has attracted several prominent politicians and interest groups across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones. Its strategy has been to build coalitions and partnerships to maximize its influence in the 2027 elections. However, like many opposition parties, ADC faces challenges of internal competition, where different factions seek control of leadership positions.
Momodu’s advice comes at a crucial moment for the party. With less than two years to the 2027 elections, ADC is expected to finalize its leadership structure and candidate selection process. Analysts say that early enforcement of discipline and transparent processes could help the party avoid internal disputes and build a credible challenge to the APC.
Momodu stressed that ADC must remain a party guided by democratic principles and inclusivity. He urged party leaders to ensure that no individual or group dominates the decision-making process and that all stakeholders feel respected and valued.
“A coalition can only work if all groups participate freely and fairly,” he said. “ADC should set an example by practicing what it preaches: unity, discipline, and democratic processes.”
“ADC is at a critical stage,” said a Lagos-based political analyst. “How it handles internal differences now will determine whether it can emerge as a strong opposition in 2027. Discipline, transparency, and inclusivity are key.”