Tinubu Blasts ADC as “Coalition of Confusion”, Commends Ganduje, Hints at New Party Entrants Ahead of Congresses

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has delivered a scathing critique of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), labeling the opposition platform a "coalition of confusion" as he addressed top members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) during the party’s 14th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held in Abuja.

The gathering, which marked a significant moment for the APC’s internal restructuring and political strategy, was attended by top stakeholders including governors, federal lawmakers, party executives, and newly appointed officials. Tinubu used the occasion not only to articulate a forward-looking agenda for the party but also to take deliberate aim at the ADC, which has enjoyed support from several smaller political coalitions in recent months.

According to Tinubu, parties like the ADC lack coherence and direction, and represent nothing more than desperate alliances born out of political expediency. He drew a sharp contrast between the APC’s current repositioning efforts and what he described as the fragmented and visionless nature of the opposition. “They call themselves a coalition, but what they’ve put together is nothing but a coalition of confusion,” Tinubu said with emphasis, eliciting laughter and applause from the APC faithful in the audience.

The President used the moment to justify why political actors, particularly those from struggling or fracturing political movements, are increasingly seeking refuge in the APC. “It is not a bad idea to abandon a sinking ship,” he added, hinting that a new wave of defections and alignments might be on the horizon as the APC opens its doors to new members.

Amid the political jabs and affirmations of party superiority, Tinubu also turned his attention to matters of internal party development. He expressed his deep appreciation to Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, the immediate past National Chairman of the APC, for his contributions and loyalty. Recalling a significant task he had handed to the former Kano State governor, Tinubu praised Ganduje for his role in establishing a progressive institute aimed at shaping the ideological backbone of the APC.

“I gave him an assignment on the formation of a progressive institute,” Tinubu said. “The National Secretary will now work with the new chairman to revitalise it. Ganduje may no longer be Chairman, but we can still take him as a consultant to help move that vision forward.”

This remark suggests that while Ganduje has formally exited his role as APC Chairman, his political relevance within the ruling party may continue behind the scenes. His replacement, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs Nentawe Yilwatda, was officially named the new APC National Chairman during the NEC meeting, solidifying the recent leadership transition.

President Tinubu also addressed an important shift in the party’s schedule. The previously planned State, Local Government, and Ward Congresses will now be held in December. This decision, he explained, was strategic and meant to create room for more inclusivity as the party anticipates an influx of new members.

“We need to give time for those who want to join us to find space and become part of our process,” he said. “Our doors are wide open to all progressive-minded Nigerians who believe in the vision and strength of the APC.”

This planned delay in the congress schedule indicates a broader political strategy that aims to consolidate power, attract fresh political talent, and potentially absorb elements from weakened or disintegrating opposition platforms. It also reflects Tinubu’s trademark approach of merging tactical political maneuvers with long-term institutional planning.

The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of purpose among party members, as discussions moved from leadership transitions and internal reforms to external competition and national governance. For many observers, the tone of the meeting left no doubt that Tinubu remains firmly in control of the APC, and is determined to shape both its ideological foundation and electoral prospects as Nigeria approaches another critical political season.

As political tensions build across the country, the APC appears poised to reinforce its dominance, while opposition groups face increasing scrutiny and internal challenges. With the President himself now deeply involved in both party affairs and national governance, Nigeria’s political landscape is bracing for what could be a transformative period in its democratic evolution.