ADC Urges Baba-Ahmed To Join Obi In Opposition Coalition

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has appealed to Labour Party’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed, to align with his party’s flag bearer, Mr Peter Obi, in the emerging opposition coalition, stressing that Obi remains firmly committed to the alliance.

Responding to Baba-Ahmed’s criticism of the coalition, the ADC clarified that his remarks represented his personal views and did not reflect the party’s or the coalition’s stance.

In a statement issued by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Jackie Wayas, the ADC reaffirmed its commitment to forging a strong opposition front ahead of the 2027 elections, with the goal of unseating the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Baba-Ahmed had, during a recent television interview, dismissed the coalition as “deceptive” and “incapable” of rescuing Nigeria from its current challenges. He also signalled interest in contesting alongside Obi in 2027.

However, the ADC maintained that the coalition was built on consensus after extensive consultations among key political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai, Senator David Mark, Rauf Aregbesola, Rotimi Amaechi, and Peter Obi himself. 

The party emphasised that these leaders had put national interest above partisanship to create a credible alternative to President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The statement recalled that Obi had publicly identified the ADC as the preferred platform for the coalition in 2027, repeatedly underscoring the need for unity to confront poverty, insecurity, and misgovernance.

Quoting Obi, the ADC noted that “no single group can transform Nigeria alone,” stressing that the coalition’s strength lay in its diversity and shared vision for capable and compassionate leadership.

While distancing itself from Baba-Ahmed’s comments, the ADC extended an olive branch to him, describing him as “a respected voice for integrity and justice” whose participation would strengthen the collective effort.

“Since the coalition is a joint endeavour requiring the contributions of all patriots, we urge Senator Baba-Ahmed to come on board and help advance this vision for a new Nigeria,” Wayas said.

Reiterating its call for national support, the ADC urged Nigerians to rally behind the coalition in the quest to deliver transformative leadership.