Politics
2027 Election: ADC Chieftain Accuses Tinubu of “Fear” and Interference as Party Dispute Deepens
A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has accused President Bola Tinubu of attempting to weaken opposition parties ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election.
Mr Eze made the claims in a press statement on Friday, reacting to the removal of key ADC officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal.
The development involves the delisting of Senator David Mark and former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola as the party’s national chairman and secretary respectively.
Mr Eze described the move as politically motivated, alleging that it reflects growing tension as political alignments begin ahead of 2027.
“Even with 33 serving governors in the ruling party, President Tinubu is afraid of a competitive election in 2027,” Mr Eze said.
Why it matters
Nigeria’s next presidential election is still over a year away, but early political manoeuvres are already shaping the landscape.
Disputes over party leadership and INEC’s role in maintaining party records could influence how opposition parties organise and present candidates.
Analysts say internal cohesion within opposition parties will be critical if they are to mount a strong challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Allegations against government and INEC
Mr Eze accused the Tinubu administration of interfering in party affairs through state institutions, including INEC.
He said:
“This latest illegal move of using INEC to destabilise the ADC is politics taken too far.”
He also alleged that the government was attempting to weaken opposition parties broadly, referencing internal challenges within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“The target and game plan is to ensure a sole presidential candidate across party lines in 2027,” he claimed.
The presidency and INEC have not publicly responded to these specific allegations.
Legal context and Supreme Court ruling
Mr Eze cited a recent Supreme Court judgment to support his argument that INEC should not interfere in internal party matters.
According to him, the ruling in a case involving the PDP emphasised that leadership disputes within political parties are internal issues.
“The Supreme Court has made a pronouncement stopping INEC from interfering in the affairs of political parties,” he said.
Legal experts note, however, that while courts often avoid internal party disputes, INEC still has statutory responsibilities to maintain accurate party records and ensure compliance with electoral laws.
Industry and public perspectives
Political observers say such disputes are not uncommon in Nigeria’s pre-election period.
Some analysts argue that accusations of interference often reflect deeper struggles within parties over leadership and direction.
Others warn that prolonged disputes could weaken opposition coalitions and reduce voter confidence.
Civil society groups have also called for transparency from both political parties and electoral bodies to maintain trust in the democratic process.
What’s next
The ADC has indicated it will continue with its internal political activities despite the dispute.
Mr Eze urged party members to proceed with planned congresses and organisational processes.
Meanwhile, attention is likely to shift to INEC for clarification on the status of party officials and its role in the controversy.
As political activity intensifies, stakeholders are expected to monitor how institutions manage disputes in the lead-up to 2027.
A leading aspirant in the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo North, Alexander Oluremi Ajipe, has congratulated Olayide Adelami on his birthday, describing him as a “perfect gentleman” committed to public service.
In a statement he personally signed, Ajipe praised Adelami’s contributions to the development of Ondo State under Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.
“A perfect gentleman who has continued to contribute his quota immensely to the development of Ondo State.”
Why it matters
The message reflects ongoing political alignments within the APC in Ondo State, particularly as aspirants position themselves ahead of future electoral contests.
Observers say such public endorsements and goodwill gestures often signal loyalty and strategic alliances within party ranks.
Ajipe highlighted Adelami’s “unwavering commitment to public service” and his role in advancing development across key sectors in the state.
“Your dedication, humility and service-oriented approach exemplify the true spirit of leadership that Ondo State is proud of.”
Leadership and public service
Ajipe also commended the deputy governor’s leadership style, noting that it aligns with what he described as the state’s broader development agenda.
He offered prayers for continued strength and wisdom for Adelami.
“May this new age bring you even greater blessings, strength and opportunities to serve our beloved Sunshine State.”
Industry and public perspective
Political analysts say birthday tributes in Nigeria’s political space often go beyond celebration, serving as subtle indicators of alliances and influence.
For constituents, such messages can reinforce public perception of unity within leadership, especially in a politically active state like Ondo.
What’s next
With political activities gradually building ahead of future elections, stakeholders are expected to continue strengthening alliances within party structures.
Ajipe, known for his advocacy in youth empowerment and community development, is considered one of the notable voices in Ondo North’s evolving political landscape.
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has led a large-scale health and fitness walk in Akure, aimed at promoting physical wellbeing among residents.
The event, which drew thousands of participants, began at the Government House and ended at the Akure Township Stadium.
Why it matters
The walk comes amid growing concern over lifestyle-related health issues in Nigeria, with public officials increasingly promoting exercise as a preventive measure.
Governor Aiyedatiwa said the initiative was designed to encourage regular physical activity and improve overall wellbeing.
He also used the platform to address political developments, hinting at a possible return for some former aides recently disengaged from his administration.
‘Loyalty will not be ignored’
Speaking to participants, the governor praised the turnout and the diversity of groups involved, including civil servants, artisans, and security agencies.
He highlighted the importance of exercise not only for physical health but also for mental and spiritual balance.
Addressing former aides present at the walk, he said:
“You remained committed even after leaving office. That loyalty will not be ignored. Previously, we had about 650 aides, but the plan now is to appoint 1,000. Many of you will still have roles to play.”
The remark signals a potential expansion of political appointments as part of ongoing restructuring within the state government. 
Public turnout and political undertones
The fitness walk was organised by a group led by Kehinde Akinrotoye, a former Senior Special Assistant on Sports.
Officials say the large turnout reflects public support for the administration.
The Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Segun Omoyofunmi, said the participation showed confidence in the governor’s leadership.
Health message meets governance
Governor Aiyedatiwa also urged residents to combine physical exercise with spiritual practices, including prayer and fasting.
He expressed optimism that the new month would bring “good health, renewed strength and prosperity” to the people.
What’s next
The governor’s comments on reappointments are likely to raise expectations among former aides and political observers.
Analysts say the planned increase in appointments could have implications for governance costs and political consolidation in Ondo State.
A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has said the defection of former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso to the party signals trouble for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.
Mr Eze described the move as a “bad omen” for Mr Tinubu’s re-election ambitions, arguing that it strengthens an emerging opposition coalition.
He said Kwankwaso’s entry into the ADC reflects growing dissatisfaction with the current administration’s performance.
“By joining the ADC, Kwankwaso has dealt a heavy political uppercut blow to President Tinubu’s re-election bid,” Eze said.
Kwankwaso, a former presidential candidate and leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), formally joined the ADC in Kano on Monday.
Why It Matters
The defection comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with economic challenges, including inflation and rising cost of living.
Eze argued that opposition leaders are positioning themselves to capitalise on public discontent.
“The country is bleeding… the only way to oust Tinubu and his unpopular government is through a coalition movement,” he said.
Political analysts say coalition-building could play a decisive role in the 2027 elections, especially if opposition parties unite behind a single candidate.
A Growing Opposition Coalition
Eze praised Kwankwaso for joining what he described as a “credible and strategic” political platform.
He noted that the ADC now includes prominent figures such as:
Atiku Abubakar
Peter Obi
Rotimi Amaechi
Aminu Tambuwal
Nasir El-Rufai
“Kwankwaso has further placed Tinubu on Aso Rock’s exit corridor,” he added.
He also described the former Kano governor as a “political tsunami waiting to blow off Tinubu.”
Event in Kano
Kwankwaso received his ADC membership card at Gidan Kwankwasiyya in Kano, in the presence of senior party leaders.
Among those present were:
David Mark
Rauf Aregbesola
Dino Melaye
John Odigie-Oyegun
Emeka Ihedioha
The gathering signals a broader effort to consolidate opposition forces ahead of the next election cycle.
What’s Next
Eze warned that defeating an incumbent government would require more than symbolic moves.
“Voting out an incumbent in Nigeria is not by firing one silver bullet… we must unite ahead of our primaries,” he said.
He urged ADC members to avoid internal divisions and focus on presenting a united front against the ruling party.
Political observers say the coming months will test whether the coalition can maintain cohesion and translate momentum into electoral strength.
Industry & Public Perspective
Some analysts believe Kwankwaso’s grassroots appeal could boost ADC’s chances, particularly in northern Nigeria.
However, others caution that Nigeria’s political history shows alliances often fracture before elections.
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has yet to formally respond to the development.
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