As political realignments gather momentum ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, Kenneth Okonkwo, a prominent chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has expressed strong confidence that the emerging opposition coalition will end the dominance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking during a televised interview, Okonkwo said the movement to dislodge the ruling party is already underway and gaining momentum across the country.
“We are still coalescing, but the journey toward removing APC has clearly begun,” he said.
He claimed that the coalition is already attracting significant political support, including nine senators and several members of the House of Representatives, describing the development as an early sign of shifting political tides.
Okonkwo also took aim at Godswill Akpabio, accusing the Senate President of inconsistency in his political conduct, though he did not elaborate further on the allegation.
FCT Polls ‘A Sham’
The former Labour Party spokesperson also criticised the February 21 area council elections in the Federal Capital Territory, where the APC secured five out of six chairmanship seats.
According to him, the exercise did not reflect a credible democratic process and should not be used to assess the strength of opposition parties.
“The FCT election was a sham. There was no real election,” he said.
Okonkwo alleged that opposition supporters were hindered from moving freely to polling centres, while ruling party actors allegedly operated without restriction.
He specifically accused Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, of interfering in the electoral process.
“Wike had no constitutional role at polling units. He is neither an elected official in the FCT nor an electoral officer, so he had no business moving from one polling unit to another,” he argued.
ADC Emerging as Major Opposition Platform
Despite not holding federal power, Okonkwo insisted that the African Democratic Congress has now become Nigeria’s most credible opposition platform.
“Today, ADC is the leading opposition party in Nigeria,” he declared.
He said he had long advocated for a unified opposition front, urging leaders in the People’s Democratic Party, Labour Party, and other smaller parties to merge efforts rather than remain fragmented.
According to him, that strategy has now materialised, with opposition forces agreeing to adopt the ADC as a common platform to pursue what he described as the vision for a new Nigeria.
More Defections Expected Ahead of 2027
Okonkwo further predicted that more political heavyweights would soon join the ADC as preparations intensify for the next election cycle.
“You will soon see more politicians joining us, and by the grace of God, APC will become history,” he said.
The All Progressives Congress came to power in 2015 on promises to tackle corruption, revive the economy, and improve national security. However, after more than a decade in office, opposition voices argue that worsening economic hardship, inflation, and insecurity have deepened public frustration across the country.
About the Author
