A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Fidelis Nwankwo, has declared the party a credible alternative for Nigerians ahead of the 2027 general elections, citing worsening economic hardship and insecurity across the country.
Speaking to journalists in Abakaliki, Nwankwo urged citizens to assess their current living conditions under the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, asking whether life has improved since 2023. He argued that if the answer is negative, Nigerians should consider the ADC as a viable path to change.
According to him, the rising cost of living reflects deep economic challenges. He highlighted sharp increases in the prices of essential medical supplies and fuel, noting that drugs for chronic illnesses such as diabetes and asthma have surged significantly, while petrol now sells at about ₦1,400 per litre.
Nwankwo blamed these pressures on policy failures, structural weaknesses, and inefficiencies in governance, which he said disproportionately affect ordinary Nigerians. He warned that without proper social safety nets, the situation could worsen and threaten long-term national stability.
He further suggested that key political figures, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rotimi Amaechi, could help reposition the country if aligned with a new governance framework.
On security, Nwankwo pointed to persistent threats from insurgency and terrorism, particularly in Borno State, where he claimed some local government areas remain under the control of armed groups. He attributed the situation to poor policy execution, corruption, and lack of political will.
He said the ADC aims not only to win the presidency but also to secure legislative and gubernatorial positions to ensure effective policy implementation nationwide.
However, the claims were swiftly rejected by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). A media aide to the Ebonyi State APC chairman, Chijioke Agwu, defended the current administration, insisting that Nigeria has recorded significant infrastructural and economic progress under President Tinubu.
Agwu criticised the ADC, describing its members as politicians who had previously held power without delivering meaningful change. He urged Nigerians to remain with the APC, expressing confidence that voters would make informed decisions in 2027.
He also praised the administration of Francis Nwifuru in Ebonyi State, citing ongoing infrastructure development and prudent use of public funds as evidence of good governance.
