Former Minister of Sports and a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Solomon Dalung, has declared that the party is fully prepared to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking in an interview with ARISE NEWS on Monday, Dalung reassured Nigerians that despite internal disagreements, the ADC remains strong and focused on its mission as a credible opposition force.
“The ADC is prepared for 2027. These hiccups within the process are normal. Even the internal wranglings are also normal,” he said, adding that such challenges are part of the growth of any opposition party determined to strengthen democracy.
Dalung emphasized that the ADC would strictly comply with the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) regulations, describing them as non-negotiable legal obligations.
According to him, the ADC is currently in a transitional phase, integrating coalition elements into its structures to broaden its political base. “The ADC is undergoing a transition where it has birthed coalition elements and incorporated them into the party. So it is incorrect to describe it as merely an association,” he explained.
On the claims made by the party’s former presidential candidate, Dumebi Kachikwu, Dalung clarified that while Kachikwu remains a respected member, his previous candidacy does not confer any special constitutional powers within the party.
“The party is guided by its constitution, and I do not see where the right he claims is appropriated to him. But he is entitled to his opinion in a democratic setting,” Dalung stated.
Responding to concerns about INEC’s sample signatures and registration, the former minister confirmed that the issues had been resolved, assuring Nigerians of clearer updates in the coming days.
Dalung concluded by expressing confidence that the ADC will emerge as a strong alternative to the ruling party. “From the activities across the country, Nigerians can be sure that we will provide a credible alternative to the APC in 2027,” he said.
