Published by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Nigeria’s ruling party has publicly downplayed the growing alignment of prominent opposition figures within the African Democratic Congress, escalating political tensions as early positioning for the 2027 general elections gathers momentum across the country.
The National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Felix Morka, triggered widespread debate after describing leading opposition politicians, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, as “twinkle little stars” within the ADC, arguing that their combined political weight has failed to translate into meaningful national impact.
Morka made the remarks during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics programme, where he dismissed suggestions that the emerging coalition within the ADC poses any threat to the ruling party. He insisted that while the individuals involved may have held significant offices in the past, their current alignment does not reflect real political strength or electoral viability.
The APC spokesperson extended his criticism to other figures linked to the ADC coalition, including former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola, stating that although they appear influential individually, their collective presence has not produced tangible political momentum. He argued that their previous positions in government do not automatically translate into present-day relevance in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
Central to Morka’s argument is the assertion that the ADC lacks the structural capacity, unity, and grassroots reach required to mount a serious electoral challenge. He maintained that the APC, having secured victories in the 2023 general elections, remains firmly positioned as the dominant political force in the country.
“Why would we be afraid?” Morka asked during the interview, emphasizing that the ruling party has consistently demonstrated electoral strength. He described the ADC as “a non-starter” and suggested that its current trajectory does not indicate any credible threat to the APC’s hold on power.
The comments come at a time when the ADC has increasingly attracted attention as a potential coalition platform for opposition figures seeking to consolidate forces ahead of the next election cycle. The involvement of high-profile politicians has fueled speculation about the emergence of a broad-based alliance that could challenge both the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party.
However, the unfolding situation within the ADC has been marked by internal disputes and leadership controversies, which critics argue undermine its credibility. Recent developments have seen rival factions contest control of the party, culminating in a decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission to withdraw recognition of one faction led by former Senate President David Mark, pending the resolution of a legal dispute.
Morka seized on these internal challenges to reinforce his argument, describing the ADC’s difficulties as self-inflicted. He suggested that the party’s leadership struggles and organisational lapses indicate a lack of cohesion, rather than external interference as alleged by some of its members.
The ADC had earlier accused the APC of meddling in its internal affairs, a claim Morka firmly rejected. He challenged the opposition party to provide concrete evidence to support its allegations, stating that the ruling party has no interest in destabilising what he described as a weak and fragmented opposition platform.
Beyond structural concerns, Morka also criticised what he characterised as a pattern of political instability among key figures in the ADC coalition. He argued that many of them have moved across multiple political parties over the years, often leaving behind unresolved internal conflicts.
According to him, this pattern raises questions about their ability to build and sustain a unified political movement capable of addressing Nigeria’s complex governance challenges. He accused the politicians of contributing to internal crises within the parties they previously belonged to before shifting allegiance and attributing blame to external forces.
The remarks have drawn mixed reactions within Nigeria’s political space. Supporters of the APC view the comments as a reflection of the party’s confidence and track record, while opposition figures and analysts interpret them as an attempt to downplay a potentially significant realignment.
For Atiku Abubakar, a veteran politician and multiple-time presidential contender, the ADC’s emerging coalition represents another strategic move in a long career defined by shifting alliances and persistent efforts to secure Nigeria’s presidency. His involvement in the ADC has been widely seen as part of a broader attempt to unify opposition forces under a single platform.
Similarly, Rotimi Amaechi, a former governor of Rivers State and influential political figure, brings considerable experience and networks to any coalition he joins. His participation in the ADC has been interpreted by some analysts as a sign that the party could evolve into a more formidable force if it successfully consolidates its internal structures.
Political observers note that Nigeria’s electoral history is replete with last-minute alliances and realignments that have reshaped the political landscape. The formation of the APC itself in 2013, through a merger of opposition parties, remains a key example of how coalitions can alter the balance of power.
Against this backdrop, some analysts caution against dismissing the ADC coalition too quickly. While acknowledging the party’s current challenges, they argue that the involvement of experienced politicians could provide a foundation for future growth, particularly if internal disputes are resolved and a coherent strategy is developed.
At the same time, skepticism persists about the ADC’s ability to overcome its organisational weaknesses. Previous attempts at forming opposition coalitions in Nigeria have often been undermined by competing ambitions, ideological differences, and leadership struggles.
The ongoing political exchanges between the APC and opposition figures highlight the early stages of what is expected to be an intense build-up to the 2027 elections. With more than a year to go before the next electoral cycle formally begins, parties are already positioning themselves, testing narratives, and seeking to shape public perception.
For the APC, the strategy appears to centre on projecting confidence and continuity, while casting doubt on the viability of opposition alliances. For the ADC and its emerging coalition, the challenge lies in demonstrating unity, credibility, and a clear alternative vision capable of resonating with voters.
As Nigeria navigates this evolving political landscape, the interplay between rhetoric and reality will likely play a decisive role. Whether the ADC coalition can move beyond internal challenges to become a genuine contender remains uncertain, but its emergence has already added a new dimension to the country’s political dynamics.
What is clear, however, is that the contest for 2027 has effectively begun, with key actors staking their positions and testing the strength of potential alliances. In this context, Morka’s remarks serve not only as a critique of the opposition but also as an indication of the high stakes and shifting alliances that will define Nigeria’s next electoral chapter.
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