THE 2023 presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dumebi Kachikwu, has strongly criticised the newly formed opposition coalition, describing its members as “enemies of Nigeria” who are intent on dragging the country backward.
Speaking during an interview today, Kachikwu condemned the coalition’s decision to adopt the ADC as its political platform for the 2027 elections.
He expressed dismay at the composition of the alliance, stating that it was dominated by political veterans who had long contributed to the nation’s current challenges.
“They are enemies of progress,” Kachikwu said. “Nigerians are no longer deceived. What we saw in that room were mostly ‘formers’—former vice president, former governors, former ministers. These individuals represent Nigeria’s past and are incapable of leading us forward.”
Earlier today, the coalition held a meeting at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, announcing the adoption of the ADC as its platform.
Former Senate President David Mark and ex-Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola were named interim national chairman and secretary respectively, following the resignation of the party’s former national chairman, Chief Ralph Nwosu.
However, Kachikwu dismissed the development, questioning the legitimacy of the handover and criticising the perceived hijacking of the ADC.
“They came in through the back door. Ralph Nwosu’s tenure ended two years ago. He has no mandate to hand over the party to anyone,” Kachikwu said.
He argued that the coalition’s leadership lacked the moral authority to chart a new course for Nigeria, noting the absence of youth representation in their gathering.
“Seventy per cent of our population are youths—yet their coalition consists of mostly people above 75. These are political jobbers and career office holders who sit at home and complain. That’s not opposition, that’s self-service,” he added.
Kachikwu also announced plans to petition the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for clarification on the leadership of the ADC.
“We will formally engage INEC. If INEC confirms that someone who left the party 18 years ago is now chairman, I’ll walk away from the ADC and stop speaking on this matter.”
Describing the coalition members as “yesterday’s men,” he insisted that Nigerians are in search of new leadership with fresh ideas, not recycled politicians.
Meanwhile, the coalition’s meeting drew several high-profile figures from across party lines, including Atiku Abubakar (PDP), Peter Obi (Labour Party), Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, Dele Momodu, Senator Ireti Kingibe, and others.
The alliance is reportedly aiming to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
Despite their announcement, the legitimacy of their claim to the ADC remains contested as Kachikwu and loyal members of the party push back against what they describe as an illegal takeover.