AWKA, Nigeria — The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has said it expects further political pressure and intimidation following what it described as a failed attempt to deregister the party, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Anambra State Chairman of the party, Chief Ndubisi Nwobu, made this known while reacting to the outcome of a Federal High Court proceeding in Abuja presided over by Justice Peter Lifu, which sought the deregistration of the party.
Nwobu alleged that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is unsettled by ADC’s growing influence, warning that more “obstacles and intimidations” may lie ahead.
“So we expect more obstacles, more intimidations — but I will assure you, so long as there is law in this land, ADC will be on the ballot and will do extremely well in the 2027 general election,” he said.
He insisted that ADC remains legally qualified to operate, citing constitutional provisions guiding party deregistration. According to him, the party does not meet the criteria for deregistration, having secured electoral victories in the 2023 general elections.
“During the 2023 general election, ADC secured two House of Representatives seats in Kogi, and also four House of Assembly seats — two in Kogi and two in Oyo State,” Nwobu stated.
He argued that the court’s position may have stemmed from misinformation or a failure to consider these facts, adding that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had previously recognised ADC’s eligibility to remain a registered political party.
On the 2027 presidential race, Nwobu expressed strong support for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, defending his choice of Rotimi Amaechi as a running mate amid criticisms and recent political developments.
“If you’re out for a political contest, you must devise a unique approach that will give you victory. The man, Atiku, is experienced and understands the dynamics of politics in this country,” he said.
Addressing the debate over zoning and regional power rotation, Nwobu dismissed the relevance of “turn-by-turn” politics, arguing that Nigerians are more concerned about economic hardship and insecurity.
“Poverty, insecurity, hardship, hunger, and inflation affect all Nigerians. What the country needs is a detribalised leader who can turn things around for the better,” he added.
The ADC chieftain expressed optimism about the party’s prospects in the 2027 elections, projecting electoral gains in Anambra State, including at least one senatorial seat, five seats in the House of Representatives, and multiple positions in the State House of Assembly.
The development highlights rising political tensions ahead of the 2027 polls, as opposition parties position themselves amid ongoing debates over electoral fairness, party regulation, and governance.
