Dr. Tunde Elebute, Deputy Director of the Crime Victims Foundation of Nigeria (CRIFON), Lagos State chapter, has highlighted key challenges facing the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as it prepares for the 2024 general elections, during an interview with Daily Independent on Sunday, 7 September, 2025.
Elebute said the ADC must field a strong presidential candidate capable of unseating President Bola Tinubu.
He noted that the North has held power for the past eight years under the late General Muhammadu Buhari, and he believes it is now the South’s turn to produce the country’s next president.
He added that Atiku Abubakar is not a suitable candidate for the ADC.
Elebute also said the party has not yet confirmed Peter Obi as its presidential candidate, leaving uncertainty in its leadership and strategy.
The political analyst highlighted other potential contenders but pointed out challenges for each.
For example, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde remains in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and is therefore unavailable for the ADC ticket.
Northern politicians such as Nasir El-Rufai may face difficulties gaining support from southern voters.
Rotimi Amaechi could be a possible candidate, but internal family and political dynamics, including opposition from his brother Nyesom Wike, may work against him.
Elebute further stressed that internal conflicts among the original leaders of the ADC need careful attention.
He said that these issues could be resolved through effective dialogue, which is necessary for the party to present a united front in the elections.
He stated that without a clear strategy and consensus on leadership, the ADC risks losing relevance in a highly competitive political landscape.
”The ADC should get a presidential candidate that can unseat Tinubu. North has been there for eight years through the late General Muhammadu Buhari. This is the turn of the South. So, Atiku cannot be the ADC candidate. The ADC is not yet sure of Peter Obi. The Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, is still in PDP. El-Rufai is from the North. Rotimi Amaechi could be, but his brother, Nyesom Wike, will likely work against him. The issues about the original leaders of ADC can be resolved through effective dialogue,” he said.
