ADC Announces New State Chairmen To Strengthen Coalition Ahead Of 2027 Elections.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has released the names of its new state chairmen across 32 states in Nigeria, marking a significant step in bolstering its structure as it prepares for the 2027 general elections. The announcement, made by the party’s National Secretariat, underscores the ADC’s commitment to building a robust political platform following its adoption by a high-profile opposition coalition.
The list of state chairmen, unveiled on 9 July 2025, is part of the party’s strategy to solidify its presence nationwide and ensure effective coordination at the grassroots level. The ADC, now led by an interim executive under former Senate President David Mark, is positioning itself as a formidable alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The coalition, backed by prominent figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rauf Aregbesola, aims to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.
According to a press release from the ADC National Secretariat, the appointment of these chairmen reflects the party’s focus on fostering unity and driving political transformation across Nigeria. The new leadership is expected to spearhead membership drives, strengthen local structures, and promote the coalition’s agenda of preventing one-party rule. The move comes amid a wave of defections from other parties, including the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and APC, with notable figures such as Mohammed Umara Kumalia and Alh. Saleh Kida joining the ADC in Borno State.
However, the announcement has not been without controversy. Some former state chairmen and party chieftains, including the ADC’s 2023 presidential candidate Dumebi Kachikwu, have expressed concerns over the coalition’s takeover of the party. Critics argue that the process lacked consultation with existing party structures, with some chairmen claiming they were issued membership cards on the same day they were appointed. Despite these tensions, the ADC’s interim spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, defended the legitimacy of the process, noting that decisions were ratified by the National Executive Committee (NEC) and authorised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Kennedy Odion, the ADC chairman in Edo State, described the coalition as a “new dawn” for the party and Nigeria’s political landscape. He expressed optimism about its potential to reshape the country’s future, stating, “Nigerians are now happy, and ADC has become the bride of the nation.” The Benue State chapter also dismissed claims of widespread opposition to the new leadership, urging aggrieved members to seek clarification from former chairman Ralph Nwosu.
The ADC’s coalition has gained significant momentum, with analysts suggesting it could emerge as Nigeria’s main opposition party by 2027. Political commentator Iliyasu Hadi noted that the realignment of major opposition figures under the ADC banner signals a strategic effort to present a united front. The party, originally founded in 2005 as the Alliance for Democratic Change, has a history of advocating for grassroots representation and inclusivity, with its constitution emphasising membership open to all Nigerians regardless of religion, ethnicity, or socio-economic status.
As the ADC continues to expand its influence, the appointment of new state chairmen is seen as a critical move to harness the coalition’s growing support. With defections from other parties gaining traction and the party’s leadership calling for unity, the ADC is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s political future. The full list of chairmen, covering 32 states, is expected to be followed by further appointments to ensure representation across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.