The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to see the rise of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition as a critical moment for self-reflection and course correction in governance.
Speaking from Abakaliki on Friday, the National Deputy General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, stated that the emergence of the ADC should not be dismissed as a mere political movement but rather embraced as an opportunity for the Tinubu administration to tackle Nigeria’s worsening economic situation, growing insecurity, poverty, and hunger.
According to Isiguzoro, “The inefficacy of certain ministers responsible for the dismal performances observed in critical sectors, including the economy, security, agriculture, health, and rural development, must be addressed as we approach August 2025, marking two years since the appointments of his cabinet ministers.”
He acknowledged progress in specific areas, such as infrastructure and the transformation of the Federal Capital Territory, but insisted that broader reforms were long overdue.
“The unspeakable truth remains that while we commend the progress made in road infrastructure and revolutionary policies within the Federal Capital Territory spearheaded by Ministers David Umahi and Nyesom Wike, it is now mandatory for President Tinubu to reevaluate his cabinet.”
“He must prioritise clinical reforms and policies driven by esteemed Nigerian economists, experts, and technocrats, discarding political loyalty that no longer serves the interests of the nation, and such recalibration is vital for restoring public confidence and salvaging the integrity of his administration.”
Isiguzoro emphasized that the ADC’s emergence helps challenge the drift toward a one-party system, offering Nigerians a genuine alternative.
“The ADC coalition will halt Nigeria’s drift to a one-party system.”
He also called on the President to view the rising opposition not as a threat, but as an opportunity to adjust his leadership direction.
“Furthermore, President Tinubu must view the ADC’s ambitious plans to unseat him as an unintended blessing, an opportunity to recalibrate his strategies and refocus his efforts.”
However, Isiguzoro did not hold back in criticizing some of the new coalition’s key players.
“It is imperative to be forthright, and while the ADC may present itself as a viable opposition, it is essential to recognise that many of its coalition leaders bear direct responsibility for the overwhelming suffering endured by Nigerians under APC governance over the last decade.”
“Reports indicate that approximately 80 per cent of ADC coalition leaders are individuals of questionable character, primarily interested in state capture—leveraging the Federal Government’s inadequacies for personal gain.”
He also raised concerns over political developments in the North, warning of possible shifts in allegiance that could have serious implications for the President’s political future.
“Further reports indicate that some Northern governors are engaged in secretive discussions with the ADC and are facing increasing pressure from Northern political leaders and traditional rulers to abandon the APC, and they are closely monitoring the presidency’s anxiety.”
“The Northern region stands poised to undermine his political interests should he decide to replace his Vice President, Kashim Shettima, with another Northern nominee for the upcoming elections.”
Ohanaeze warned that time was running out for Tinubu to correct his course.
“Now is the time for President Tinubu to confront his shortcomings; the current trajectory is foreboding, suggesting dire consequences should he fail to adjust his strategies in a timely manner. The moment for decisive action is nigh.”
