The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has distanced itself from recent claims made by Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed, the Labour Party’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, stressing that his criticisms of the opposition coalition are “personal opinions” and not reflective of the party’s official position.
In a statement signed by Jackie Wayas, Deputy National Publicity Secretary, the ADC reaffirmed its commitment to forming a united opposition front ahead of the 2027 general election.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Baba-Ahmed accused the alliance of “deceiving Nigerians,” claiming it lacks the potential to rescue the country from underdevelopment.
He also expressed his willingness to run alongside Mr Peter Obi in 2027.
The ADC, however, maintained that the alliance constitutes a serious and collective endeavour meant to give Nigerians a genuine alternative to President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
According to the statement, the alliance is endorsed by major political heavyweights, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, Senator David Mark, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Rotimi Amaechi, and Mr Peter Obi.
The party noted that these figures joined together following “wide consultations to put national interest above partisan divides and to provide competent, compassionate leadership.”
The ADC further noted that Obi had publicly supported the party as the coalition’s platform for the 2027 elections.
Obi emphasised that only a unified opposition can dismantle Nigeria’s ingrained systems of poverty and insecurity.
He emphasised that “no single group can change Nigeria alone” and that “a new Nigeria is possible.”
Clarifying its position, the ADC stated that Baba-Ahmed’s comments were completely personal.
“Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed’s assertions are his personal opinions and do not reflect the position of the ADC or its coalition partners,” Wayas told the newspaper.
Nonetheless, the party offered him a conciliatory hand, calling him a committed leader whose voice continues to be vital in the national discussion
“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 added.
Emphasising its commitment to rally the opposition around a transformative agenda, the ADC urged Nigerians to back the coalition in its bid to rescue the country.
“Nigerians deserve clarity and unity in the pursuit of a better future. Let us rally behind the ADC and rescue Nigeria,” the statement concluded.
