Tuesday, 16 December 2025

What the ADC Needs to Do to Win in 2027




Hon Daniel Asekhame


As Nigeria moves steadily toward the 2027 general elections, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) faces both a historic opportunity and a formidable challenge. Public dissatisfaction with dominant political parties, rising youth political awareness, and growing demand for accountable leadership have created space for alternative platforms. For the ADC to convert this opening into electoral victory, the party must take deliberate, strategic, and people-centered steps.

Unity remains the backbone of electoral success. The ADC must prioritize internal cohesion by resolving factional disputes early, enforcing party discipline, and promoting inclusive decision-making. A transparent internal democracy—especially in candidate selection—will help prevent defections and post-primary crises that have weakened many parties in the past.

Winning elections in Nigeria is impossible without a solid grassroots base. The ADC must move beyond urban visibility and establish functional party structures at ward, local government, and state levels. Regular engagement with community leaders, artisans, farmers, traders, women groups, and youth associations will help the party earn trust and loyalty where votes are 

The party’s candidates must reflect competence, integrity, and connection to the people. Nigerians are increasingly wary of recycled politicians without clear records of service. ADC must field candidates with proven track records, clear ideas, and the ability to communicate effectively with ordinary citizens. Credibility, not just popularity, should be the 

To win in 2027, ADC must go beyond slogans and articulate a clear policy agenda. Nigerians want answers to pressing issues such as insecurity, unemployment, inflation, education, healthcare, and power supply. The party should present simple, realistic, and people-focused solutions that distinguish it from the vague promises of established 

With youths forming a significant portion of the voting population, the ADC must intentionally involve them—not just as supporters, but as leaders, candidates, and decision-makers. Strategic use of social media, digital organizing, and data-driven campaigns will help the party mobilize first-time voters and urban youth who feel disconnected from traditional politics.

Coalitions can be powerful tools, but they must be driven by shared values rather than convenience. ADC should form strategic partnerships with like-minded groups, civil society organizations, and reform-oriented politicians while maintaining a clear ideological identity. Nigerians must know what the ADC stands for, even within alliances.

Winning votes is only half the battle; protecting them is equally crucial. The ADC must invest early in training polling agents, legal teams, and election monitors. A strong presence on election day, backed by legal preparedness, will reduce the risk of electoral manipulation and post-election disputes

The 2027 elections represent a defining moment for the African Democratic Congress. Victory will not come by chance, but through organization, credibility, grassroots engagement, and a compelling vision for Nigeria’s future. If the ADC commits to internal unity, people-driven politics, and disciplined strategy, it can move from being an alternative party to a governing force—and earn the confidence of Nigerians seeking real change.