Bye Election: Ohanaeze Doubts ADC Viability To Win APC In 2027
By Alex Odeh
The apex Igbo-socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo has expressed uncertainty over the ability of the opposition political party, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to win any election in the anticipated general election of 2027.
This doubt was contained in a statement issued in Abakaliki on Monday and signed by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Deputy President General Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
According to him, the performance of the ADC in the recent bye-elections held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, across sixteen constituencies nationwide, during which it recorded huge losses was an indication that the coalition party lacks the capacity to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The statement reads: “The Apex Igbo Sociocultural Organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, finds itself compelled to address the alarming electoral losses experienced by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the recent bye-elections held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, across sixteen constituencies nationwide.
“These defeats have reverberated throughout Nigeria, sending shockwaves of disappointment and disillusionment among the citizenry.
“It is with a sense of urgency that we assert the undeniable truth: the Coalition Opposition Party has demonstrated an alarming inability to effectively challenge the incumbent ruling party as we approach the pivotal 2027 elections.
“The unexpected triumph of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), under the leadership of Anambra State Governor Professor Chukwuma Soludo, over ADC candidates—who were notably backed by former Governor Peter Obi—serves as a stark contradiction to the prevailing narrative that the Southeast is unequivocally aligned with Obi’s political ambitions.
“This electoral outcome not only diminishes Obi’s influence but also raises profound questions about the ADC’s viability as a legitimate political force in Nigeria. The results of this election serve as a crucial litmus test, revealing a disconcerting disconnect between the expectations of the electorate and the realities presented by the ADC.
“In light of these developments, Ohanaeze Ndigbo feels an obligation to convey this unvarnished truth to the leaders of the opposition coalition. The stark reality of the ADC’s electoral failures has cast a long shadow of doubt in the minds of millions of Nigerians regarding the party’s capacity to provide any meaningful opposition or credible alternative to the ruling APC.
“It is deeply concerning that, despite widespread anticipation that the ADC would secure at least a simple majority of seats, the party failed to win even a single seat in this critical electoral exercise.
“As we reflect on these results, it becomes imperative for the ADC to reassess its strategies and engage substantively with the electorate. The party’s current trajectory, characterized by social media hyperbole and a lack of meaningful engagement with the Nigerian populace, is insufficient for overcoming the challenges that lie ahead.
“The Igbo people, now more politically astute than ever, are unwilling to gamble their future on a weakened opposition party, whether it be the ADC or the Labour Party.
“Furthermore, we call upon Peter Obi to critically reevaluate his decision to contest the 2027 presidential election against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The recent defeats of his ADC candidates underscore the formidable challenges that await him.
“The political landscape is shifting, and it is essential for Obi and his supporters to recognize the reality of the situation. The Southeast governors and Igbo political leaders, led by Senator David Umahi, have indicated their intent to deliver a substantial portion—90%—of the Southeast votes to President Tinubu.
“In conclusion, Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains steadfast in its commitment to the political advancement of the Igbo people and the broader Nigerian society. We urge all stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue, reassess strategies, and work collectively toward a future that embodies the aspirations and hopes of all Nigerians. The time for reflection and decisive action is now”, he stated.
