ADC: Dumebi Kachikwu Slams INEC and Opposition Leaders Over 2027 Plans

Dumebi Kachikwu, a factional leader within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has strongly criticised both opposition leaders and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the ongoing political struggle ahead of the 2027 elections. He accused Atiku Abubakar, David Mark, and other politicians of attempting to hijack the ADC through what he described as a defunct leadership structure. According to him, Ralph Nwosu’s tenure as ADC chairman expired in 2022, and any coalition agreement signed under his watch is illegitimate. This, Kachikwu argues, amounts to a backdoor takeover designed to favour powerful figures without regard for party rules or internal democracy.

Kachikwu has also taken aim at INEC for failing to intervene in the crisis. Despite court rulings directing that proper conventions be held to elect leaders, the commission has not clarified who the legitimate ADC leadership is. He insists that INEC’s silence emboldens political actors who are exploiting the situation. Without clear recognition from the electoral body, there is confusion over which faction has the legal authority to represent the party. This uncertainty, according to Kachikwu, could weaken the ADC’s credibility and compromise its ability to present a united front in the 2027 elections.

Another area of contention is zoning and the question of equity in the distribution of political power. Kachikwu has argued that the presidency should return to the South in 2027, accusing the coalition of skewing arrangements to favour a northern candidate, particularly Atiku Abubakar. He says such moves neglect the principles of fairness and regional balance, and risk alienating large segments of the country. This position adds to the broader debate on whether Nigeria should continue to rotate the presidency between North and South or prioritise competence and electability over zoning.

The crisis within the ADC highlights deeper challenges in Nigeria’s opposition politics. While many opposition figures are working to form a united front against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC, internal disputes threaten to derail their efforts. Kachikwu’s criticisms raise questions about legitimacy, fairness, and the role of INEC in ensuring transparency. If unresolved, these conflicts could leave the opposition divided and weaken their chances of mounting a serious challenge in 2027.

Do you think internal divisions within opposition parties like the ADC are a greater threat to their chances in 2027 than competing against the ruling APC? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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