Panic in Opposition Coalition as EFCC Arrests Top ADC Leaders Over ₦189bn Allegations
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) and its allies in the 2027 opposition coalition are in disarray following a sweeping crackdown by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on some of their most influential figures.
Tension soared after former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal was grilled on Monday over alleged fraudulent cash withdrawals totalling ₦189 billion during his tenure (2015–2023).
Tambuwal arrived at EFCC headquarters in Abuja around 11:30 a.m., where investigators accused him of “flagrant violations” of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. He remains in custody as investigations continue.
While the EFCC insists its actions are evidence-driven and not politically motivated, ADC leaders see the arrests as a targeted attempt to cripple opposition forces ahead of the 2027 elections.
ADC Accuses EFCC of Political Witch-Hunt
ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi alleged that three former governors within the coalition—some now serving as lawmakers—have been summoned by the EFCC in what he calls an intimidation campaign.
“These are not fresh cases,” Abdullahi said. “They’re old files being dusted off to scare key opposition figures or push them out of the coalition.”
In a strongly worded statement, the ADC accused the EFCC of acting like “a department of the APC,” claiming that investigations into ruling party members are quietly dropped while opposition politicians face revived charges.
“The EFCC is funded by taxpayers, not the ruling party,” the statement read. “Selective prosecution undermines justice and pushes Nigeria towards dictatorship.”
Responding, EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale dismissed the ADC’s accusations as “untenable and ridiculous,” challenging the party to provide proof. He said the agency’s mandate is to apply the law equally to all Nigerians, regardless of political affiliation.
Beyond the EFCC drama, internal rifts are emerging within the opposition alliance. The Obidient Movement, led by Tanko Yunusa, has accused ADC leaders of sidelining Peter Obi’s loyalists.
Meanwhile, political heavyweights once rumoured to be joining the coalition—such as former Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, and ex-SGF Boss Mustapha—have publicly reaffirmed loyalty to the APC.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has also put plans to join the ADC on hold, amid speculation that ex-President Goodluck Jonathan may enter the 2027 race.
African Democratic Congress Reshuffles Leadership
The ADC has appointed Deputy National Chairman Nafiu Bala as Acting National Chairman following the resignation of Ralph Okey Nwosu. Bala, a 2023 Gombe governorship candidate, vowed to rebuild party structures, strengthen internal democracy, and pursue strategic alliances.
“Together, we will build a stronger, more united, and effective political party,” Bala pledged.
