A former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Solomon Dalung, has dismissed claims by 2023 African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Dumebi Kachikwu that the opposition coalition hijacked the party without stakeholder input.
Speaking in a interview today, Dalung clarified that the process of integrating the coalition with the ADC followed due procedure and had been in the works for about 18 months.
He insisted that key party figures, including the ADC Board of Trustees Chairman, were present at the coalition’s unveiling—proof that stakeholders were involved.
“It wasn’t a hijack,” Dalung said. “The presence of the party’s trustees and members of the working committee at the event shows transparency in leadership transition.”
Dalung added that Kachikwu may be out of touch with recent developments within the party.
“He may not be fully informed or connected to the party’s internal affairs. However, he has shared his perspective, and it is now up to the party to address his concerns.”
At the coalition launch in Abuja yesterday, former Senate President David Mark was named interim national chairman of the ADC, with former Osun State Governor and Interior Minister Rauf Aregbesola appointed as interim secretary.
The event marked the formal handover by former ADC chairman Ralph Nwosu.
Following the handover, Kachikwu alleged that the coalition was engaging with the wrong individuals and that Nwosu’s leadership had expired.
He further criticized the coalition’s composition, accusing it of welcoming politicians who had “ruined Nigeria” and referring to them as “backdoor entrants” and “viruses”.
In response, Dalung emphasized that the attendance of former national working committee members—many of whom had resigned their roles—underscored the legitimacy of the transition.
“If Kachikwu is suggesting that the party he ran under was led by someone illegitimate, that’s a contradiction,” Dalung said.
“He had the opportunity to be informed but appears unaware of the developments. Still, he’s asking questions now, which is within his rights.”
The formation of the coalition has gained traction as Nigerians continue to face economic challenges under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Following a series of consultations, the coalition selected the ADC as its political platform for the 2027 elections. Members include high-profile politicians such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, Dele Momodu, Ireti Kingibe, Odigie Oyegun, and others.
In his acceptance speech, Senator Mark said the coalition was formed to reverse Nigeria’s democratic decline and challenge the APC’s dominance.
“This movement is not just about taking power—it’s about restoring Nigeria’s democracy,” he declared.
“Our mission is simple: Rescue Nigeria. Rebuild Nigeria. Return power to the people.”