A newly formed political coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), comprising some of Nigeria’s most prominent opposition figures, has ignited heated debate across the country’s political landscape, as observers question whether the alliance is a genuine force for change or a recycled power grab.
The coalition, which includes political heavyweights such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, ex-Senate President David Mark, and former governors like Rauf Aregbesola and Rotimi Amaechi, is being likened to a feeble imitation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) merger that unseated the Peoples Democratic Party in 2015.
Unveiled amid mounting public frustration over insecurity, inflation, and deepening economic hardship, the coalition’s timing has been viewed as strategic. Yet, doubts have emerged over its coherence, credibility, and capacity to offer a fresh political direction.
While the move sent ripples through the ruling APC, internal cracks within the coalition are already surfacing. Critics argue that many of its members are entrenched political figures who have previously failed to address Nigeria’s chronic issues while in office.
“There’s a familiar pattern here,” said political scientist Dr Emeka Nwankwo. “These are the same actors who contributed to Nigeria’s problems. To now turn around and present themselves as agents of change is not only ironic, but also insulting to the intelligence of the electorate.”
Echoing similar concerns, governance expert Austin Okolo questioned the intentions behind the alliance, warning that without a decisive break from the past, the coalition risks becoming another political rerun with no transformative agenda.
Although supporters claim the coalition offers a credible alternative to the ruling party, analysts say the lack of a defined economic or development blueprint weakens its promise. “This is not about power for power’s sake,” said economist Dr Ayoade Balogun. “The coalition must articulate a vision and back it with actionable plans to gain public trust.”
Dr Ayoade highlighted the need for inclusive leadership, a consistent message, and a demonstrated commitment to reform. “Nigerians are tired of lofty promises. They want results—security, jobs, functioning infrastructure, and transparency,” he added.
The coalition has drawn criticism not only for its leadership makeup—often described as “gerontocratic”—but also for its alleged failure to integrate women and youth meaningfully. Activist Aisha Yesufu, while supporting the movement, cautioned against tokenism.
“Positions like youth or women leaders cannot be the only avenues for inclusion,” Yesufu warned. “We need young people and women at the decision-making table, not as an afterthought.”
The coalition includes a long list of seasoned politicians and public figures, including Nasir El-Rufai, Gabriel Suswam, Aminu Tambuwal, John Odigie-Oyegun, Datti Baba-Ahmed, and Babachir Lawal, among others. However, critics like Reno Omokri have ridiculed the idea of expecting change from individuals they describe as part of Nigeria’s political decay.
Referencing David Mark and Aregbesola’s past controversies, Omokri said: “Can Nigerians truly trust a movement led by those who previously upheld outdated, elitist ideologies?”
Despite the scepticism, some observers believe the coalition could still make an impact if it can build consensus, clearly define its vision, and commit to democratic values.
History, however, casts a shadow. A similar attempt in 2018, when the ADC hosted the short-lived Coalition for Nigeria Movement backed by ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, failed to gain traction and fizzled out within months.
Political watchers say the fate of this latest coalition may depend not just on public sentiment, but on its ability to stay united, present concrete solutions, and rise above the political baggage of its members.
For now, many Nigerians are watching, wary but hopeful, wondering whether the new opposition force can offer more than recycled promises in a country desperate for meaningful reform.
