Atiku, ADC criticise APC campaign council inauguration

African Democratic Congress Presidential Campaign Council (ADC-PCC) and its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar have criticised the inauguration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council, raising concerns over multiparty democracy, political competition and the use of national institutions.

In separate statements on Wednesday, the ADC-PCC Director of Media and Publicity, Kola Ologbondiyan, and Atiku, through his Director of Strategic Communication, Phrank Shaibu, questioned the ruling party’s approach ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Ologbondiyan alleged that opposition governors were being pressured and called for respect for the freedom of association of elected officials and political parties.

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He also urged national institutions to remain neutral and ensure fair political participation, warning that developments within the ruling party could undermine democratic inclusion.

Atiku, meanwhile, questioned the decision to inaugurate the APC campaign council at the Presidential Villa, arguing that the seat of government should remain a neutral national institution rather than serve as a venue for partisan activities.

He also criticised what he described as an emphasis on political mobilisation at a time when Nigerians were grappling with rising living costs, poverty and insecurity.

Citing the 2026 Global Multidimensional Poverty Index, the former vice-president said economic hardship and insecurity should be central to political campaigns, urging the ruling party to present its record to Nigerians.

Both statements called for the protection of democratic institutions and respect for opposing political views.

Ologbondiyan urged Nigerians, media organisations, civil society groups and the international community to support multiparty democracy, stressing the need for tolerance and accountability.

He also expressed confidence in the ADC presidential ticket of Atiku and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, describing them as experienced politicians capable of contributing to national unity and democratic governance.

Atiku said the ADC had assembled its campaign team to present its proposals to Nigerians, adding that voters would judge political parties by their experiences and the solutions offered to the country’s challenges.