Leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu over rising insecurity and economic hardship, declaring that the 2027 general elections would not be an easy contest.
The remarks were made at the party’s national convention held in Abuja with the theme “So That Nigeria May Work.”
Former Senate President and ADC National Chairman, David Mark, alongside former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, said Nigerians were experiencing worsening living conditions, which they described as unprecedented.
Other party stakeholders, including former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, also expressed concern over what they termed a deteriorating security situation and increasing poverty levels in the country.
Despite the criticisms, the convention was rejected by a rival faction of the party led by Nafiu Bala, which described the gathering as illegitimate and insisted it would hold a separate convention after the Supreme Court ruling on the leadership dispute.
The ADC has been embroiled in a leadership crisis since 2025, following the emergence of parallel leadership structures.
The dispute has resulted in multiple court cases and divisions within the party, now split into three factions.
At the Abuja convention, over 3,000 delegates reportedly endorsed a National Working Committee led by David Mark and adopted a revised party constitution and manifesto.
Addressing delegates, Mark said the ADC remained committed to internal democracy and national development, stressing that no individual would be above the party’s constitution.
He added that the party aimed to reposition politics to serve the interests of the Nigerian people and improve their living conditions.
Also speaking, Aregbesola criticised the current administration’s handling of the economy and security, while Atiku Abubakar called for what he described as genuine political change to address the nation’s challenges.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has fixed April 22, 2026, for the hearing of an appeal arising from the ADC leadership crisis.
A Federal High Court in Abuja has also adjourned related proceedings, pending the outcome of the appeal, while ordering parties involved in another suit to maintain the status quo.
The ongoing legal battles continue to raise concerns over the party’s cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections.