The African Democratic Congress (ADC) on July 30, 2025, declared that the Nigerian presidency is not a hereditary entitlement, asserting that President Bola Tinubu must “reapply” to retain power in the 2027 election.
Interim National Chairman David Mark made the statement during a party rally, criticizing Tinubu’s administration for economic hardships, including a 33.4% inflation rate and a naira value of ₦1,550 per dollar, as reported by the National Bureau of Statistics. Mark argued that Tinubu’s 37% vote share in 2023 does not guarantee re-election, urging Nigerians to view the ballot as a democratic reset.
The ADC’s stance challenges the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s endorsement of Tinubu for a second term, with the ruling party citing his reform agenda. However, the opposition highlights a 70 million poverty rate, per World Bank data, as evidence of policy failure.
Critics within the ADC, including 2023 presidential candidate Dumebi Kachikwu, caution that the party’s aggressive rhetoric risks alienating voters if not paired with a clear alternative. The narrative of democratic competition is bold, positioning ADC as a disruptor, but its success depends on translating public discontent into a cohesive campaign against Tinubu’s incumbency advantage.