ADC has solution to Nigeria’s challenges – Dimkpa

As political parties in the country are making last-minute decisions to put their parties in the minds of Nigerians and win the 2027 general election, Chukwudi Dimkpa, Rivers State chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has said that his party (ADC) has a solution to the challenges faced by the country.

Dimkpa in a telephone interview with BusinessDay, maintained that democracy thrives on competition, and that every political party has the constitutional right to seek the mandate of the people.

He said that the ADC remains focused on building a strong grassroots structure, presenting credible candidates, and offering practical solutions to the challenges faced by Nigerians, noting that their strategy is not built around fighting a particular party, but around connecting with the people.

He stressed that Nigerians are increasingly interested in competence, credibility, and capacity.

“We believe that by presenting a clear vision and demonstrating our commitment to good governance, the ADC will remain a formidable force in the political landscape. Ultimately, power belongs to the people, not political parties. The party that earns the trust of the people will prevail,” he said.

On the issue that other new political parties like the NDC are also gathering momentum, due to the influx of members and if he still thinks ADC remain the bride.

On the chances of the party in the forthcoming 2027 general election, Dimpka maintained that the ADC was still that beautiful bride, noting that political relevance is not measured solely by the movement of political elites, but by the confidence and support of ordinary citizens.

He stressed that the ADC remained a people-oriented party with a strong presence across the country. While individuals may choose different political platforms, the values that made ADC attractive to Nigerians remain intact, such as internal democracy, inclusiveness, transparency, and a commitment to national development.

“Political parties will continue to experience alignments and realignments. What remains constant is our commitment to serving the people. We are confident that many Nigerians still see ADC as a credible alternative and a platform for genuine change,” he stated.

Explaining further, he stated that their campaign will be issue-based, not ethnicity-based, even if other Parties bring an Ikwere person as a governorship candidate, while we respect the political significance of every ethnic bloc and constituency in Rivers State, our focus will be on the competence, character, experience, and vision of our candidate.

He said that the people of Rivers State are looking for solutions to unemployment, insecurity, economic stagnation, infrastructure challenges, and youth empowerment.

“These are the issues that will shape our campaign. We believe Rivers people are politically sophisticated enough to look beyond ethnic sentiments and support candidates that offers the best roadmap for the future. Our candidate will be marketed on merit, capacity, and a clear agenda for development,” he explained.

On the allegation that the ruling party at the centre will manipulate the 2027 elections, Dimkpa noted that the strongest defence against undue influence is an informed, vigilant, and determined electorate.

“As a party, we intend to strengthen our structures at the ward, local government, and state levels. We will invest heavily in voter education, election monitoring, agent training, and lawful engagement with relevant institutions.

“We also believe that civil society organisations, the media, security agencies, and the international community have important roles to play in safeguarding democracy.

“Most importantly, when the will of the people is overwhelming and properly protected, it becomes extremely difficult for any external influence to alter the outcome,” he said.

On whether he trusts the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in conducting credible and transparent elections in 2027, he said that as a democratic institution, INEC has a constitutional responsibility to conduct free, fair, and credible elections, and that Nigerians expect the Commission to discharge that responsibility professionally.

“We acknowledge that there have been concerns and controversies surrounding previous elections, but democracy requires us to continue engaging constructively with the electoral process.
“Our position is simple: we will support every effort aimed at improving transparency, accountability, and voter confidence. We will also continue to advocate for strict adherence to electoral laws and procedures.

“The credibility of the 2027 elections will not only be important for political parties; it will be important for the stability and democratic future of Nigeria.
‘At the end of the day, Nigerians deserve elections in which every vote counts and every voter matters,” he said.