Former Sports Minister, Solomon Dalung, has declared that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is fully prepared to contest the 2027 general elections, despite concerns raised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) about the party’s leadership registration.
Speaking on Arise TV’s Morning Show on Monday, Dalung dismissed fears that INEC’s procedural queries could derail the party.
“The ADC is a registered political party in Nigeria and has existed for over 19 years.
The party is currently in transition with new coalition partners being incorporated, and this process is ongoing. So, it is misleading to say the ADC is just an association,” he said.
INEC had earlier stated that the ADC had not yet fulfilled the requirements needed to formally recognize Senator David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as National Chairman and National Secretary. Until then, all documents signed by them would remain invalid.
But Dalung insisted the matter was being resolved.
“The requirements of INEC are legal obligations, and the ADC has no choice but to comply. To the best of my knowledge, party leaders are working tirelessly to complete the documentation,” he explained.
He added that the coalition must be guided by the rule of law if it hopes to rescue Nigeria.
Reacting to claims by Dumebi Kachikwu, the ADC’s 2023 presidential candidate, that the party has been hijacked by outsiders, Dalung brushed off the allegations.
“Being a candidate in the last election does not place him in the organs of the party. He is free to hold opinions, but referring to other members in derogatory terms is inappropriate,” he said.
Dalung also revealed that INEC’s concerns over specimen signatures of the new leadership were already close to being settled.
“Within a few days Nigerians will hear the proper position of things,” he noted.
Looking ahead, Dalung expressed optimism that the ADC will serve as a credible alternative to the ruling party in 2027.
“These challenges, whether internal wrangling or procedural requirements, are normal. From our activities across the country, it is clear Nigerians can count on us to provide a credible option,” he said.
