LAGOS, Nigeria (FN) — Nigerian publisher and politician Dele Momodu says the African Democratic Congress (ADC) must embrace a northern-focused strategy if it hopes to mount a serious challenge against President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election.
Speaking on Tuesday, Momodu argued that the opposition party cannot afford to ignore the political weight of northern Nigeria, which has historically played a decisive role in presidential contests. “The ADC must adopt a northern strategy if it wants to challenge Tinubu in 2027,” Momodu said, stressing that building alliances in the region would be critical for the party’s chances.
Tinubu, who took office in 2023, has maintained strong influence across the southwest, but Momodu noted that the north remains a battleground where opposition parties could consolidate support. Some ADC members welcomed Momodu’s remarks, saying the party must broaden its appeal beyond urban centers. “The north is key to any serious presidential bid. Without a strong presence there, no party can win nationally,” said Ibrahim Musa, an ADC organizer in Kano. Policy analysts, however, cautioned that regional strategies alone may not be enough. “It’s not just about geography. Voters want credible policies on the economy, security, and jobs,” said Dr. Amina Yusuf, a political scientist at Ahmadu Bello University.
On social media, Momodu’s comments sparked debate. Supporters praised his candor, with one user writing on X (formerly Twitter): “Finally, someone is telling ADC the truth — the north decides elections.” Others criticized the focus on regional politics, arguing that Nigeria needs issue-based campaigns. “We are tired of ethnic strategies. Talk about solutions, not regions,” another user posted.
Political analysts say Momodu’s remarks reflect growing concerns among opposition figures about how to counter Tinubu’s incumbency advantage. The ADC, one of Nigeria’s smaller parties, has struggled to gain national traction but is seen by some as a potential vehicle for broader opposition unity.
