2027: Allow Free, Fair Elections If You Have Capacity To Win, ADC Dares APC

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has challenged the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Federal Government to demonstrate their confidence in winning the 2027 general elections by guaranteeing a free, fair and credible electoral process.

The Director-General of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, Senator Austin O. Akobundu, issued the challenge while expressing appreciation to party supporters and Nigerians who turned out in large numbers to welcome the party’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, in Sokoto State, and his running mate, Rotimi Amaechi, in Kebbi State.

Akobundu described the massive turnout at the rallies as a powerful demonstration of public enthusiasm for the ADC and growing interest in the party’s political message.

He commended the supporters for their solidarity, commitment and peaceful participation, noting that their reception of the presidential candidates reflected Nigerians’ determination to have a voice in deciding the country’s future.

The ADC chieftain, however, accused the APC-led administration of attempting to undermine the opposition through what he described as a backdoor judicial process aimed at stopping the ADC from participating in the electoral contest.

He argued that resorting to legal manoeuvres to frustrate the opposition raises questions about the ruling party’s willingness to face Nigerians in a genuinely competitive election.

“If the Federal Government and the APC believe they have the capacity to win, let them allow a free and fair election. Let Nigerians choose without intimidation, obstruction or interference. They must stop trying to muzzle the political space and using a backdoor court process to remove us from the contest,” he said.

Akobundu insisted that Nigeria’s democracy would only thrive when all political parties are allowed to operate freely, present their manifestoes and engage voters without intimidation or unnecessary interference.

He further maintained that Nigerians must be given the freedom to attend political gatherings, listen to competing political ideas and make their choices at the ballot box without fear.

According to him, the credibility of the 2027 general elections depends on ensuring that the people’s votes, rather than political interference, determine the outcome.

The ADC Presidential Campaign Council Director-General also urged party members and supporters across the country to remain calm, steadfast and committed to peaceful political engagement despite the challenges facing the party.

He assured supporters that the ADC would not be distracted from its campaign activities, stressing that the party remained determined to take its message of affordable living, greater opportunities and national renewal to Nigerians across the country.

“We call on our party supporters to remain calm and resolute. Let us continue to campaign peacefully and confidently, knowing that the people’s will must prevail,” he stated.

Akobundu reiterated the party’s appreciation to residents and supporters in Sokoto and Kebbi States for the warm reception accorded its presidential candidates, promising that the campaign would continue across other parts of the country.

He said the ADC remained committed to engaging Nigerians on the need for a new direction, improved economic opportunities and a renewed national outlook ahead of the 2027 general elections.