Akinyemi: Hurdles ADA Must Overcome to Defeat Tinubu, APC in 2027
By Erewunmi Peace
As Nigeria gradually approaches the 2027 general elections, political strategists and commentators have begun to weigh in on the evolving political landscape. Dr. Bolaji O. Akinyemi, Convener of the Apostolic Round Table, has shared critical insights on the challenges that the proposed opposition alliance, referred to as the African Democratic Alliance (ADA), must overcome to pose a credible threat to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement published over the weekend, Akinyemi emphasized that while public discontent and economic hardship have fueled opposition sentiment, the ADA must navigate several key hurdles if it hopes to unseat the incumbent in 2027.
“A fragmented opposition cannot defeat a well-entrenched party like the APC. If ADA is to succeed, it must build a truly national coalition, unify its leadership structure, and present a candidate that resonates with Nigerians across regional and religious divides,” Akinyemi stated.
He further identified three main challenges:
- Internal Cohesion: Many opposition figures have conflicting interests and ideologies, making consensus-building difficult.
- Public Trust: The electorate remains skeptical of recycled political actors and coalitions without clear reform agendas.
- Grassroots Mobilization: While the APC maintains strong structures nationwide, most opposition movements remain active only online or in urban centers.
President Tinubu, who secured a narrow victory in the 2023 elections, has already received endorsement from the APC to run for a second term. With four years to consolidate power, political analysts believe the opposition must act decisively and strategically to mount an effective challenge.
Though ADA is not yet a registered political party, the term is increasingly being used by commentators and opposition leaders to describe a potential merger of existing parties and pressure groups working towards a common goal in 2027.
As the political climate heats up, Nigerians watch with keen interest whether a viable alternative to the ruling APC will emerge—and if that alternative can truly deliver the change it promises.
