2027: ADC-PCC accuses Tinubu govt of plot to weaken opposition
By Luminous Jannamike
ABUJA – The African Democratic Congress Presidential Campaign Council (ADC-PCC) has alleged that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is engaging in a systematic campaign of intimidation aimed at opposition parties as the nation approaches the 2027 general elections.
In a statement released by Kola Ologbondiyan, the Director of Media and Publicity for the council, the ADC-PCC accused the government of orchestrating attacks on opposition leaders, demolishing campaign offices, denying access to campaign venues, and harassing party members. These actions, the council contends, are designed to stifle political engagement and undermine democratic freedoms.
The ADC-PCC detailed specific incidents, including attacks on its leaders and members in Kaduna, an alleged assault on Alhaji Munir Dan Iya, its candidate for governor in Sokoto State, by Sokoto Marshals along Airport Road, and various assaults on other opposition figures.
The council noted the reported demolition of its governorship campaign office in Kebbi State and the refusal to provide a campaign venue to Mr. Peter Obi, presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), in Enugu State. Additionally, the ADC-PCC highlighted attacks against Omoyele Sowore, the presidential candidate for the African Action Congress (AAC), as indicative of increasing political intolerance.
“These are calculated actions intended to intimidate Nigerians ahead of the general elections,” the statement read.
The ADC-PCC expressed concern that these incidents threaten political pluralism, asserting that no government can indefinitely suppress the democratic aspirations of the Nigerian populace. The council referenced the popular resistance that contributed to the failure of former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s third-term agenda, suggesting that similar democratic forces would emerge to counter efforts to limit political participation.
The council emphasized that Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) once benefited from opposition politics, arguing that the same rights must be afforded to all political parties today.
Additionally, the ADC-PCC raised alarms about the ongoing detention of its Vice Chairman and former Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, claiming he is being unlawfully held and denied bail.
“The world is watching, and the burden of this illegality rests with those responsible,” the council stated.
The council also accused the government of using financial incentives to compromise individuals within opposition ranks, insisting that Nigerians would not surrender their constitutional rights for monetary gain.
“President Tinubu may attempt to buy loyalty with financial inducements. While some may be swayed, not all Nigerians are for sale,” the statement asserted.
In conclusion, the ADC-PCC urged citizens to defend their right to political choice, regardless of party affiliation, and affirmed its commitment to providing an alternative political platform.
