Former Sports Minister, Solomon Dalung, has declared that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) remains fully prepared to contest the 2027 general elections, despite procedural concerns raised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over its leadership registration.
Speaking on Arise TV’s Morning Show on Monday, Dalung dismissed fears that the electoral body’s queries could derail the party’s preparations.
“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,” Dalung stated.
INEC had earlier maintained that the ADC had not yet met the requirements for formal recognition of Senator David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively. The Commission added that until the conditions are fulfilled, all documents signed by them remain invalid.
But Dalung insisted that the issue was already being addressed.
“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, stressing that the coalition must be guided by the rule of law if it hopes to rescue Nigeria.
On claims by the ADC’s 2023 presidential candidate, Dumebi Kachikwu, that the party has been hijacked by outsiders, Dalung dismissed the allegations as baseless.
“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 further revealed that INEC’s concerns regarding specimen signatures of the new leadership were already close to resolution.
“Within a few days, Nigerians will hear the proper position of things,” he assured.
Looking ahead, the former minister expressed optimism that the ADC would emerge as a strong 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 added.
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