Former ADC Chairman Ralph Nwosu Rejects Ministerial Offers To Uphold Opposition Coalition.
Ralph Nwosu, the former National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has revealed that he was offered three ministerial appointments to abandon plans to transform the ADC into a major opposition coalition platform. The disclosure, made during the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on Tuesday, 29th July 2025, underscores Nwosu’s commitment to fostering a robust democratic future for Nigeria.
Speaking at the NEC meeting in Abuja, where the ADC formally handed over leadership to former Senate President David Mark, Nwosu alleged that senior government officials attempted to dissuade him with promises of automatic ministerial slots. “Some people tried to discourage us with promises of automatic ministerial appointments,” he stated. “They wanted to give me three slots so that I could take one and share the rest. But I said no. I chose a democratic future for Nigeria.” He described the offers as part of a broader effort to suppress the emergence of a viable opposition and push Nigeria towards a one-party state, a move he firmly opposed, citing the country’s hard-won transition from military rule.
The ADC’s transition into a coalition platform, officially announced on 2nd July 2025, has seen significant growth, with Nwosu claiming the party’s membership surged to over three million within two weeks. The NEC meeting, monitored by seven officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), also confirmed former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola as the party’s National Secretary. Nwosu noted that both the National Working Committee (NWC) and NEC members voluntarily stepped down to ensure a smooth leadership handover, reflecting the party’s dedication to democratic principles.
David Mark, now interim National Chairman, praised Nwosu and his team for their patriotism and sacrifices in building the ADC into a formidable political force. “I assure you that under my leadership, we shall be committed to full democratic practices and principles that abhor imposition and special privileges,” Mark stated, promising transparency, accountability, and collective leadership. The ADC’s growth, including claims of 28 senators and over 60 House of Representatives members, positions it as a significant player ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Presidency, however, has refuted Nwosu’s claims. Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser on Policy Communication to President Bola Tinubu, dismissed the allegations, asserting that only the President has the constitutional authority to offer ministerial positions. In a statement on 30th July 2025, Bwala challenged Nwosu to name the officials who made the offer, calling the claims baseless and mocking the ADC as an “association of jesters.”
Despite the controversy, Nwosu’s decision to reject the alleged offers has been hailed by many as a bold stand for democratic values. The ADC’s transformation into a coalition platform, under Mark’s leadership, signals a renewed effort to unite opposition forces and challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027. As Nigeria navigates its complex political landscape, the ADC’s commitment to fostering a vibrant opposition offers hope for a more competitive and inclusive democratic process.
