The African Democratic Congress in Gombe State has thrown its weight behind a newly formed political coalition aiming to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during an expanded caucus meeting in Gombe on Tuesday, the ADC State Chairman, Auwal Barde, described the coalition as “a timely alliance driven by the need to offer Nigerians a credible alternative.”
“This is not just a merger of political interests. It’s the beginning of a genuine movement to rescue Gombe State and Nigeria at large from political stagnation,” Barde said. “We have officially opened our party registers in all 114 wards and across the 11 LGAs of the state to welcome new members who believe in change rooted in accountability and inclusiveness.”
He called on citizens disillusioned by the current political establishment to find a home in the ADC. “We are calling on those who have been politically displaced or discouraged — youth, professionals, and interest groups — to come on board. ADC is a platform for real transformation,” he added.
The gathering also featured members of the coalition, including former Minister and one-time senator, Abdullahi Idris Umar, who emphasized that the alliance was not just about defeating the APC, but about providing solutions to Nigeria’s growing challenges.
“This coalition is not built on bitterness or ambition alone. We are uniting to tackle the economic hardship and leadership failure affecting ordinary Nigerians,” Umar explained. “It’s about rebuilding institutions and restoring hope. We’re inviting all well-meaning citizens to be part of this mission.”
He stressed that the focus is on long-term transformation, not just electoral victory. “This is beyond 2027. It’s about laying the groundwork for responsible, responsive, and representative leadership at all levels,” he said.
Among those who recently defected to the ADC is Abdullahi Sunusi Ataka, a former APC State Organising Secretary and youth mobilizer in Gombe. Speaking at the event, Ataka said his decision to join the ADC came after months of reflection and engagement with stakeholders.
“The decision wasn’t made lightly. It followed extensive consultations across political and civic platforms,” Ataka noted. “We see in the ADC a fresh energy, a sense of direction, and an openness that is lacking in the current system. We’re not just coming with numbers, we’re coming with structure, strategy, and a clear sense of purpose.”
He expressed confidence that the new coalition has the momentum to disrupt the status quo. “This is the movement the people have been waiting for. The ADC represents that new voice – the voice of ordinary Nigerians,” he stated.
