Abuja, Nigeria – Former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido has urged the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to embrace a more strategic, measured approach ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election.
Speaking during Arise Television’s Prime Time programme on Tuesday, Lamido described the opposition coalition as “full of sprinters” eager to announce ambitions prematurely.
Although Sule Lamido attended the ADC official launch in July, Lamido reaffirmed his loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), rejecting any move to a smaller platform.
He urged ADC presidential aspirants to slow down, strengthen grassroots networks, and present policies capable of uniting Nigerians against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Lamido advised, “They must connect quietly with people so that, when fully ready, their political momentum will be unstoppable.”
He warned that excessive haste could undermine the coalition’s credibility and weaken its ability to unseat the APC in 2027.
The former governor criticised the APC-led federal government, accusing it of worsening economic hardship and deepening widespread poverty across the nation.
He insisted the ADC’s foremost priority should be saving Nigeria from worsening economic decline and deepening political instability threatening national unity.
Lamido emphasised that Nigerians require leaders who prioritise long-term solutions over quick political victories and short-term campaign theatrics.
ADC Faces Political Pressure and Rising Aspirations
Lamido’s warning follows intensified political activity after the ADC’s unveiling, which attracted prominent politicians from across Nigeria’s political spectrum.
Within twenty-four hours of the launch, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi declared his intention to contest Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election.
The coalition has also been influenced by Labour Party leader Peter Obi’s pledge to serve only one term if elected.
Although former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has not formally declared his candidacy, analysts believe his entry into the race remains highly probable.
Lamido cautioned that rushing into campaigns without a coordinated plan could damage the ADC’s capacity to effectively challenge the APC.
ADC leaders have vowed to prevent President Bola Tinubu’s APC from winning another term by offering Nigerians a credible alternative.
