A prominent aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Abayomi Rotimi, has justified his defection to the opposition party for the upcoming 2027 elections, despite acknowledging the current leadership crisis within ADC. This development comes amid rising tensions between ADC leadership and its Youth Wing, which has issued a stark warning to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Rotimi, speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, explained his decision to align with the opposition, emphasizing thatADC is not irredeemably flawed. He argued that the current crisis within the party is self-inflicted and could be resolved if the leadership takes the right actions. “I belong to the school of thought that nothing is absolutely bad and nothing is absolutely good. As much as we can say that this is bad, it may not actually be absolutely bad,” Rotimi said. He further noted that even the political class in Nigeria, which he described as having failed the country, should be considered as the “lesser evil” compared to the current state of affairs.
Rotimi also highlighted a critical issue within ADC, suggesting that an unnamed individual within the party leadership is undermining its effectiveness by belittling members. He stressed the need for internal reform and a shift in the party’s leadership dynamics.
While Rotimi voiced his critique of ADC, the party’s Youth Wing, led by Balarabe Rufa’i, has taken a firm stance against the actions of INEC. In a press conference at ADC’s national headquarters in Abuja, Rufa’i accused INEC of overstepping its constitutional boundaries, which he claimed threatens Nigeria’s democratic system. He declared, “Nigeria is under democratic siege,” asserting that institutions like INEC are being manipulated against democratic ideals.
The Youth Wing has issued a three-day ultimatum to INEC, demanding the reinstatement of the party’s leadership recognized in 2025. Failure to comply, the Youth Wing warned, could lead to nationwide civic actions, including peaceful protests and occupation of INEC offices in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Rufa’i drew attention to a July 29, 2025, meeting of the ADC’s National Executive Committee, where the party’s leadership was reshuffled, leading to the current crisis.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, the situation within ADC underscores the political uncertainties and internal struggles plaguing Nigeria’s political landscape. Rotimi’s defection signals growing dissatisfaction within the party, while the Youth Wing’s actions highlight a deep-seated discontent with INEC’s role in the crisis. The looming elections will serve as a litmus test for ADC’s ability to resolve its internal issues and address the public’s trust in its leadership. The unfolding drama within ADC could significantly impact electoral dynamics and the overall health of Nigeria’s democracy.
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