The African Democratic Congress (ADC), recently adopted as the political platform of opposition leaders seeking to unseat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027, has vowed to secure multiple victories in today’s nationwide by-elections.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is conducting by-elections in 16 constituencies across 12 states, with voters set to fill two senatorial seats, five federal constituencies, and nine state assembly positions. Elections are also being held in Enugu South I State Constituency of Enugu State and Ghari/Tsanyawa Constituency of Kano State, following court-ordered reruns.
Most of the vacancies arose from deaths, court rulings, and resignations, including the Edo Central senatorial seat left vacant after Senator Monday Okpebholo resigned to become governor.
ADC’s First Test After Coalition Adoption
Today’s exercise is seen as the first major test of strength for the ADC since it became the adopted platform of the opposition coalition. Key political heavyweights—including Interim National Chairman Senator David Mark, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-governors Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, and Hon. Herman Iorwase Hembe—have all been campaigning vigorously for ADC candidates.
Analysts say the outcome of the polls will reveal whether the ADC has the structure and influence to challenge APC in 2027.
Obi’s Controversial Move in Anambra
Peter Obi, former Labour Party presidential candidate, stirred controversy last week when he was spotted campaigning for an ADC candidate in Onitsha North 1 House of Assembly. Though he has consistently pledged loyalty to Labour Party, Obi’s move fueled speculations of a quiet shift to ADC.
Labour Party officials in Anambra defended Obi, accusing INEC of frustrating their candidates. According to the state chairman, Hon. Emeh Ugochukwu Emmanuel, INEC’s refusal to upload candidate details forced their aspirant to contest under ADC as “a form of compensation” after her late husband, a sitting lawmaker, was killed.
El-Rufai Storms Kaduna for ADC Candidate
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, also drew attention after campaigning for ADC’s Alex Adamu in Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency. His open support for an ADC candidate sparked criticism, as El-Rufai is still officially a member of the Social Democratic Party (SDP). In response, he later urged SDP supporters in Zaria and Sabon Gari to back their candidates, further fueling debates about his shifting alliances.
Security Concerns Loom Large
Despite heightened political activity, insecurity remains a major concern, especially in Anambra and Kaduna where gunmen and bandits have repeatedly attacked civilians. Security sources warn of potential low voter turnout due to fear of violence, creating opportunities for electoral malpractice.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered heavy deployments, including AIGs, Commissioners of Police, Mobile Force units, and intelligence squads, to safeguard the elections.
High Stakes for 2027
For the ADC, today’s by-election goes beyond filling vacant seats—it is a litmus test of whether the opposition coalition can truly mount a united and credible challenge against APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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