The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared its determination to avoid repeating the monumental failure associated with the 'Change' mantra that brought the All Progressives Congress (APC) to power in 2015. The party asserts it is working diligently behind the scenes to meet the high expectations of Nigerians and deliver effective governance if it succeeds in displacing the ruling APC in the 2027 general elections.
Learning from Past Mistakes
Addressing journalists in Abuja, the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, stated that Nigeria continues to suffer from the aftermath of the APC's failed promises. He recalled that the APC, after ousting the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) under President Goodluck Jonathan and electing the late President Muhammadu Buhari, woefully failed in policy execution and delivering on its mandate.
Abdullahi dismissed claims that the ADC's coalition alliance had lost momentum, emphasizing that the party understands winning elections requires more than public noise. "We know that the expectations from Nigerians are massive. We do not want to repeat the mistakes of the past," he stated. The party is focused on tightening its internal machinery to guarantee good governance and shift the country from "inhumane policy choices to shared prosperity, peace and unity."
Policy Reversal and Transparent Candidacy
The ADC spokesman revealed that the party plans to offer credible alternatives to heal the nation's political economy. It intends to critically review what it termed the "twin false steps" of the current Tinubu administration, specifically the flotation of the naira and the removal of the petroleum subsidy.
On the crucial question of its presidential flagbearer for 2027, Abdullahi assured that the ADC would adhere to democratic principles. The party, under the leadership of its chairman, Senator David Mark, plans to conduct a credible, transparent, and inclusive straw poll to select its candidate.
"There is nothing like a preferred candidate or hidden agenda; ADC’s presidential candidate will not emerge from a closet arrangement," he affirmed. He positioned this open process as the first step in rebuilding public confidence in democracy, particularly among disillusioned youth.
Averting Democratic Apathy
Abdullahi expressed regret that the APC's failure led to widespread disenchantment, especially among young Nigerians. He issued a stark warning, noting that unless the 2027 elections credibly reflect the people's choice, the nation could face a deeper crisis of voter apathy and total avoidance of the democratic process.
The ADC frames its mission as one to "rescue Nigeria" and rekindle faith in public service, allowing a new generation to channel its energy into nation-building. The party's commitment is to ensure that the hope for a 'new Nigeria' does not become another broken promise like the failed 'Change' agenda of the past.
