Tinubu Roars at Opposition as ADC Tension Rises

The political atmosphere has reached a boiling point following the African Democratic Congress (ADC) National Convention in Abuja. The event served as a “war declaration” from the opposition, prompting a sharp and defiant response from the Presidency.

Here is the breakdown of the current “roaring” political landscape:

1. Tinubu’s Response: “I Cannot Be Intimidated”

President Bola Tinubu has fired back at the opposition coalition, dismissing their criticisms as a “disservice to the nation.”

  • The “Roar”: In a statement following the convention, the President asserted that his administration remains focused on the Rule of Law and the 2026 Electoral Act. He described the opposition’s rhetoric as “infantile” and a desperate attempt to stay relevant.
  • The “Elder Statesman” Jab: The Presidency directly called out Atiku Abubakar, stating that rather than contributing to national growth, he has chosen “the path of divisive rhetoric” and “petty political distractions.”

2. Atiku’s “War Declaration” at the ADC Convention

Atiku Abubakar stole the headlines with a blistering speech during the ADC convention on April 14–15, 2026.

  • The “Military” Analogy: Atiku declared, “We fought the military to bring democracy to this country, and we will fight again to restore it.” He accused the current government of presiding over a “failed economy, zero infrastructure, and lost sovereignty.”
  • Indicting INEC: In a historic move, Atiku directly indicted the INEC Chairman live on stage, accusing the commission of being used to “scuttle democracy” and interfering in ADC’s internal leadership.
  • US Lobbying: Reports have surfaced that Atiku has hired K-Street lobbyists in Washington on a $1.2 million retainer to position himself for a 2027 run and exploit the “frosty” relations between the US and the Tinubu administration.

3. The ADC Power Struggle: Purge & Recognition

The convention effectively cemented a new hierarchy while deepening internal wounds:

  • David Mark Ratified: The convention officially ratified Senator David Mark as the National Chairman, a move recently backed by INEC’s recognition of his faction.
  • Expulsions: The party formally expelled Nafiu Bala Gombe (former Deputy National Chair) and Hon. Leke Abejide to crush the “Reform Group” opposition.
  • The Amaechi & Obi Factor: The convention saw a rare show of unity as Rotimi Amaechi and Peter Obi joined Atiku on stage. Amaechi delivered a heated speech mocking the government’s security record, famously stating, “I went where the criminals were. You went to the airport.