The Arewa Empowerment Coalition (AEC) has fiercely rejected the proposed All Democratic Alliance (ADA) reportedly being championed by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing it as a “desperate and opportunistic move” by a group of discredited politicians seeking relevance.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday, AEC National Coordinator, Sulaiman Yusuf Sani, dismissed the planned alliance involving Atiku and political heavyweights such as former governors Nasir El-Rufai and Rotimi Amaechi, and ex-Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, as “a misguided political misadventure driven by personal ambition, not national interest.”
> “This so-called alliance is nothing but a gathering of disgruntled opportunists attempting to hijack Nigeria’s democratic process for their own selfish ends,” Sani said.
He warned that the North and indeed the entire country would not be deceived by what he termed “political theater masked as coalition-building,” asserting that the coalition reflects a deep misunderstanding of the political climate and growing demands for credible leadership.
> “Atiku Abubakar’s repeated political miscalculations are well documented. This new move is no different. It underestimates the intelligence of Nigerians who now demand substance, not recycled alliances built on fading political legacies,” he added.
The AEC said the involvement of controversial figures like El-Rufai, Amaechi, and Lawal “only reinforces the belief that the ADA lacks moral compass and political credibility,” citing unresolved issues from their time in public office.
Sani accused the alliance leaders of being out of touch with the realities of ordinary Nigerians, saying their attempt to rebrand through coalition politics is unlikely to gain traction.
“These are politicians who have lost touch with the grassroots. Having failed to inspire or connect with the people, they now hide behind the veil of a new alliance. Nigerians won’t fall for it,” he said.
He further stated that true leadership requires vision, credibility, and people-centered policies — not “last-minute power plays designed to salvage fading careers.”
“This alliance, if it ever materializes, is doomed to fail. It’s not built on principle or purpose but pure political desperation.”
The AEC urged Nigerians, particularly northern youths, to remain vigilant and reject political arrangements that are not rooted in integrity, inclusivity, and national development.
“Our democracy is not a chessboard for failed politicians to experiment with. We call on Nigerians to be discerning and resist alliances that do not align with their aspirations or reflect genuine commitment to public service.”
Sani concluded with a stern message to Atiku and his allies:
“If you truly care about the future of Nigeria, engage in honest dialogue with the people. Step away from outdated political schemes and show leadership that puts citizens first not selfish ambition.”
