Senator Abiodun Olujimi has cast serious doubt on the viability of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the upcoming 2027 general elections, declaring that the party is not properly anchored and lacks the structural foundation to compete at a national level. Her statement came during a political summit in Abuja, where party leaders and stakeholders gathered to discuss strategies ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Olujimi, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and former Senate Minority Leader, did not mince words while assessing the preparedness of minor parties. She asserted that while the ADC has attracted attention in recent years, its inability to build solid grassroots structures and establish functional state organs puts it at a major disadvantage compared to more established parties like the APC and PDP.
“The problem is not about ideology alone,” Olujimi said. “It is about the groundwork. Elections are not won on social media or in conferences. They are won at the grassroots, with clear presence in wards, local governments, and states. The ADC, as it stands, is not properly anchored to deliver electoral victory in 2027.”
She emphasized that the importance of a robust party structure cannot be overstated, especially in a diverse and complex political landscape like Nigeria’s. According to Olujimi, without trained coordinators, financial backing, loyal foot soldiers, and voter mobilization mechanisms across all geopolitical zones, the ADC will remain a fringe player.
Her comments have sparked mixed reactions from political analysts and observers. Some agree with her candid assessment, noting that newer parties often fail to convert momentum into results due to weak organization. Others argue that the political space should be opened up for emerging movements that seek to challenge the status quo, regardless of their current capacity.
The ADC, founded in 2005, has often positioned itself as a third force in Nigerian politics. However, its electoral impact has remained limited. In the 2023 general elections, the party fielded candidates at various levels but failed to secure significant victories. While the party continues to boast of progressive ideals and youth inclusion, its national reach remains questionable.
In response to Olujimi’s remarks, some members of the ADC defended the party’s growth trajectory. A spokesperson for the party, who requested anonymity, stated that the ADC is undergoing strategic reorganization and would unveil new structures ahead of the 2027 elections. “We respect Senator Olujimi, but we also believe that with the right alliances and grassroots work, we can surprise Nigerians,” the source said.
Observers point out that Olujimi’s critique may also reflect a broader concern about the fragmentation of opposition voices in Nigeria. As disillusionment with traditional parties grows, many citizens have looked toward alternatives. However, these alternatives often fail to unify or sustain momentum long enough to disrupt the dominance of the APC and PDP.
As 2027 draws nearer, political realignments are expected to intensify. Olujimi’s remarks could serve as a call to action for minor parties like the ADC to double down on capacity building and strategic partnerships. Whether the party can heed the warning and emerge as a serious contender remains to be seen in the fast-evolving political climate.
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