The South-South Youth Amalgamation (SSYA) has strongly criticized the recently formed political coalition between the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and some prominent Nigerian politicians, warning that the alliance is driven more by “inordinate ambition” than national interest.
The coalition, which reportedly involves former Senate President David Mark and ex-Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, has been met with skepticism from the youth group, which questioned its capacity to challenge the leadership of President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Saturday and signed by its Chairman, John Alber Carlkson, the SSYA acknowledged the democratic right of political actors to form alliances but cautioned Nigerians to scrutinize the motives behind such moves.
“While we recognize the freedom of association, we are concerned that this coalition is less about national development and more about personal gain,” Carlkson said. “It lacks the structure, credibility, and grassroots appeal to pose any serious electoral threat in 2027.”
Carlkson described the coalition as a recycling of old political figures whose previous attempts at leadership, according to him, failed to deliver significant progress. He said Nigerians are growing increasingly wary of leaders who return in different political guises without a clear record of performance.
“The Nigerian political space is not a playground for serial contenders seeking relevance. We must emphasize that after eight years of northern leadership, the presidency should rightly remain in the South. This isn’t just tradition—it reflects the will of the people and the balance our democracy requires,” he added.
The SSYA accused the coalition of importing the same political habits that weakened their previous parties into the ADC, warning that the party could become a victim of internal strife and misplaced priorities.
“They come not to build, but to dominate—forgetting that the ADC has its own legacy and leadership. Their presence doesn’t automatically equate to progress,” the statement read.
Carlkson further criticized several political actors linked to the coalition—including Atiku Abubakar, Nasir El-Rufai, Peter Obi, and Rotimi Amaechi—arguing that their past tenures failed to leave lasting developmental legacies.
“Who among these names has a credible track record of transformation? The electorate is now more informed and less likely to be swayed by empty promises,” he said.
The group urged Nigerians to remain vigilant as the 2027 elections draw nearer and to reject what it described as “superficial alliances” that do not reflect the true aspirations of the people.
“We call on citizens to resist the distractions of inordinate ambition and instead focus on leaders who demonstrate integrity, vision, and a genuine commitment to national development,” the SSYA concluded.
The group reaffirmed its support for President Tinubu’s administration and called for unity and focus ahead of the next electoral cycle.
