The African Democratic Congress has distanced itself from recent comments 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 stance.
In a statement signed by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Jackie Wayas, the ADC reaffirmed its commitment to forging a united opposition front ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Baba-Ahmed, speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, had accused the coalition of “deceiving Nigerians,” insisting it lacked the capacity to rescue the country from underdevelopment, PUNCH Online earlier reported.
He also reiterated his readiness to contest alongside Mr. Peter Obi in 2027.
The ADC, however, maintained that the coalition represents a serious and collective project designed to present Nigerians with a credible alternative to President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
According to the statement, the alliance is backed by prominent political figures, 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 leaders came together after “wide consultations to put national interest above partisan divides and to provide competent, compassionate leadership.”
The ADC further recalled that Obi had publicly endorsed the party as the coalition’s platform for the 2027 elections. Obi emphasized that only a united opposition can succeed in dismantling Nigeria’s entrenched structures of poverty and insecurity.
He stressed that “no single group can change Nigeria alone” while insisting that “a new Nigeria is possible.”
Clarifying its position, the ADC said Baba-Ahmed’s remarks were strictly 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 stated.
Nonetheless, the party extended a conciliatory hand to him, describing him as a principled leader whose voice remains valuable in the national conversation.
“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.
Reiterating its mission 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.
