ADC Launches Borno Chapter, Vows to Challenge APC’s Dominance

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has officially unveiled its Borno State chapter, pledging to serve as a formidable opposition to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Sheriff Banki, the convener of ADC in Borno State, made this declaration during the party’s official launch in Maiduguri on Thursday, accusing the APC of systematically suppressing opposition voices in the state.

“Borno is in dire need of opposition parties. As far as we are concerned, there is no opposition in the state,” Banki told journalists. “But starting from today, with the unveiling of this ADC, there will be tough opposition in Borno State that can checkmate and hold the government accountable.”

Banki revealed that the ADC is joining a broader national coalition movement designed to resist APC’s alleged manipulation of the political space.

“Because of the crises facing major opposition parties in the country, which are perpetuated by the present APC administration, we have decided to go into a national coalition movement that cannot be controlled or manipulated by the APC,” he explained.

The ADC leader announced that the party in Borno would operate under the leadership of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as the Northeast leader and Kashim Imam as the state leader.

Regarding the 2027 elections, Banki stated: “Both the obedient members of the party and others who have come together will support whoever emerges as the presidential candidate of the party, and that is the agreement between all the leaders.”

Banki expressed confidence in the party’s ability to succeed despite past challenges, citing manipulation by the ruling party as a major obstacle for opposition groups.

“We can win. What has always held us back from succeeding in the state is the manipulation both within and outside,” he said. “With serious commitment and courage, I believe we can confront them, challenge them and succeed in the struggle.”

The ADC convener revealed that several prominent politicians have joined the party in Borno, including former NNPP governorship aspirants, a former PDP treasurer, former House of Assembly members, and numerous party executives.

“In the state, we have strong stakeholders; here you can see former governorship aspirants under the platform of the NNPP, former treasurer of the PDP, former House of Assembly members, former state secretary and party executives, too numerous to mention,” Banki said.

The ADC’s entry into Borno’s political landscape signals a potential shift in the state’s political dynamics, where the APC has maintained strong dominance in recent elections. The party promises to provide a platform for development-focused individuals and ensure proper checks and balances on government activities.