Africa (Commonwealth Union) – The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a strong call to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, urging them to protect Nigeria’s democracy and alleviate the suffering of its citizens.
“Let the People Breathe” – ADC Chairman
Speaking at the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, ADC National Chairman Ralph Nwosu criticized the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), alleging that it was undermining democracy and failing to address national crises.
“We implore Senator Akpabio and President Tinubu to help save our democracy and let our people breathe,” Nwosu stated.
He decried the fact that, despite over 70 million Nigerians possessing Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in 2023, the country’s democracy remains fragile. He warned that, if left unchecked, the APC’s eight million votes could overrun the nation and derail democratic governance.
“If we were in a military regime, it would have been a different cup of tea. However, to say that over 70 million adult Nigerians with PVCs were helpless in 2023, and that today the number has grown to over 100 million, suggests ignorance and complacency,” he added.
A Plan to Reclaim Nigeria’s Democracy
Nwosu unveiled the ADC’s strategy to challenge APC dominance, emphasizing that a “Marshall Plan” and strategic framework would be presented in the coming months to rescue Nigeria.
“With over 80 million adult Nigerians on our side, we are determined to reverse this trend, reclaim our country, and position it for greatness,” he declared.
He further stated that many supposed APC supporters were disillusioned and ready to align with the ADC once they were assured of its sincerity.
Demand for Political Justice
The ADC Chairman also called on President Tinubu to restore Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State to his position, labeling the alleged emergency rule in the state as undemocratic and unconstitutional. Additionally, he demanded that Senate President Akpabio reinstate Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was controversially removed from office.
“The entire Senate must apologize to her and constitute a panel to investigate her sexual harassment complaint against their President,” Nwosu asserted.
Mobilization for a New Political Era
The ADC announced a nationwide mobilization effort, forming alliances with over 20 civil society groups, associations, and trade organizations.
- The Farmer Club, Justice Group, and the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy Movement (COPDEM) have already mobilized five million new members in two months.
- The ADC plans to gather 50 million Nigerians for the ADC Handshake Across Nigeria Summit on October 1, 2025.
Nwosu concluded with a warning to Nigerian politicians, urging them to abandon “imperial majesty swagger and braggadocio” that alienates citizens. “We cannot allow a few men to continue bringing our nation of over 200 million people to ridicule,” he said.
As the 2027 general elections approach, the ADC’s challenge signals an intensified battle for Nigeria’s political future, with the opposition party aiming to reshape governance and restore democratic values.
