A significant development is set to unfold in Nigeria’s opposition politics as former presidential candidate, Dele Momodu, prepares to formally join the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Thursday, January 15. This move is seen as a boost to the party’s efforts to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
Momodu, a key ally of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has been at the forefront of a broad-based coalition aimed at uniting opposition parties to unseat President Bola Tinubu. The coalition, which is still in its formative stages, has garnered support from prominent politicians across party lines, who argue that a unified opposition platform is essential to safeguarding democratic governance in Nigeria.
The declaration event, scheduled to hold at the new ADC State Secretariat in Benin City, Edo State, is expected to draw prominent party officials and political leaders. Momodu expressed his excitement ahead of the event, describing it as a “homecoming” and urging Nigerians to rally behind what he termed a “rescue mission” for the nation’s democracy.
A United Opposition Front
Momodu’s defection is seen as a significant step towards building a formidable coalition capable of challenging President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027. The coalition initiative, championed by figures from different political tendencies, is premised on the belief that fragmented opposition parties stand little chance against an incumbent administration without a united front.
In a statement, Momodu called on Nigerians to transcend partisan loyalties in defense of democracy, warning against the emergence of a “one-man dictatorship” in Nigeria. He urged citizens to join hands in protecting the country’s democracy, which was won through the sacrifices of many, including the late MKO Abiola.
As Momodu prepares to join the ADC, his move is expected to give the party a significant boost in its efforts to challenge the APC’s dominance in the 2027 elections. The event promises to be a major development in Nigeria’s opposition politics, with many watching closely to see how the coalition unfolds.
“So, whether you are in the All Progressives Congress, the Peoples Democratic Party, the Labour Party, or whatever, we must come together to rescue democracy in Nigeria,” he added.
He further stressed that his decision to join the ADC was not driven by personal ambition for elective office but by what he described as a higher national interest, insisting that democracy must be protected at all costs in the interest of the nation and its citizens.