The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared its intention to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Borno State and support any candidate that emerges from the party in the 2027 general elections.
The convener of the party in the state, Sheriff Banki, made this known on Thursday during the official unveiling of the party in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.
Banki accused the APC of stifling all opposition voices in the state through what he described as “every possible means.” He vowed that the ADC would henceforth act as a formidable opposition, actively scrutinising government policies and speaking out against any actions it views as anti-democratic.
“Because of the crises facing major opposition parties in the country, which are perpetuated by the APC administration, we have decided to enter a national coalition movement—one we believe cannot be hijacked or controlled by the ruling party,” he said.
According to him, Borno State is currently devoid of a functioning opposition. However, with the arrival of the ADC, that narrative is set to change.
“Borno is in dire need of opposition parties. As far as we are concerned, there is no real opposition in the state. But starting from today, with the unveiling of this ADC, there will be tough opposition capable of holding the government to account,” he said.
Banki said the state chapter had joined the broader national coalition under the ADC banner to ensure Borno is not left behind in the movement. He named Atiku Abubakar as the coalition leader in the North East and Kashim Imam as its torchbearer in Borno.
On the party’s strategy for the 2027 elections, he said all members—including those from other political movements—would rally behind whoever emerges as the party’s presidential candidate.
“The ADC will offer a credible platform for individuals with progressive ideas who want to develop Nigeria. We believe we can win. What has always stopped us in Borno is manipulation—both internal and external. But with commitment and courage, we can challenge and overcome these obstacles,” he added.
Banki also revealed that the party in Borno has been adopted by several prominent political figures, including former governorship aspirants under the NNPP, a former PDP treasurer, former House of Assembly members, and former party executives.
