The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has dismissed recent remarks by Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed, the 2023 Labour Party vice-presidential candidate, clarifying that his criticisms of the opposition coalition were his personal opinions and not the position of the party or its partners.
In a statement signed by Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Jackie Wayas, the ADC reiterated its commitment to building a united opposition bloc ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Senator Baba-Ahmed, in an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, alleged that the coalition was “deceiving Nigerians” and lacked the capacity to rescue the country from underdevelopment. He also revealed his readiness to once again partner with Mr. Peter Obi in the 2027 race.
The ADC, however, emphasized that the coalition remains a collective effort of leading political figures committed to offering Nigerians a credible alternative to President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The statement listed coalition leaders to include former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Governors Nasir El-Rufai and Rotimi Amaechi, Senator David Mark, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, and Mr. Peter Obi. According to the ADC, these leaders came together after wide consultations, prioritizing national interest over political divides to pursue competent and compassionate leadership.
The party further recalled that Mr. Obi had openly endorsed the ADC as the coalition’s platform for the 2027 elections. Obi had stressed that no single group could rescue Nigeria alone, urging unity to dismantle entrenched structures of poverty and insecurity.
“Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed’s assertions are his personal opinions and do not reflect the position of the ADC or its coalition partners,” Wayas clarified.
Despite distancing itself from his remarks, the ADC described Baba-Ahmed as a respected figure and extended an olive branch to him.
“Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed is a respected voice who has always stood for integrity and justice. Since the coalition is a collective effort that requires the strength and skills of all patriots, we sincerely hope he comes on board to contribute to this shared vision for a better Nigeria,” Wayas stated.
Reaffirming its mission, the ADC called on Nigerians to support the coalition’s transformative agenda.
“Nigerians deserve clarity and unity in the pursuit of a better future. Let us rally behind the ADC and rescue Nigeria,” the statement urged.