Tinubu Dismisses ADC as “Coalition of Confusion,” Urges APC Governors to Ease Hardship

President Tinubu has dismissed ADC as “Coalition of Confusion,” and urged APC Governors to ease hardship across Nigeria.

NewsOnline Nigeria reports that President Bola Tinubu has taken a swipe at the African Democratic Congress (ADC), recently gaining traction with support from prominent opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi. Tinubu labeled the party a “coalition of confusion” during the 14th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC), held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Commenting on political realignments and defections, Tinubu stated, “It’s not a bad idea to abandon a sinking ship and be absent from a coalition of confusion.” His remark was widely interpreted as a reference to the growing strength of the ADC-led opposition alliance.

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Opposition Fires Back

The ADC and Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) swiftly responded, accusing Tinubu and the APC of insecurity over the opposition’s rising momentum. ADC’s interim spokesperson, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, said Tinubu’s comment revealed a deep discomfort with the growing relevance of the ADC. “This kind of language shows the APC’s clear intolerance for opposition,” he said, adding that the ruling party fears political accountability.

Former Vice President Atiku also lashed out, saying Tinubu should fix Nigeria’s worsening economic and security crises instead of meddling in the affairs of the opposition. He accused the Presidency of using public funds to sow division among opposition ranks.

Tinubu to APC Governors: Tackle Rural Hardship

Addressing the nation’s hardship, President Tinubu urged APC governors to intensify development efforts and focus on alleviating poverty in rural areas. “You must wet the grass more. Nigerians are still complaining at the grassroots. Let’s not disappoint them,” he said.

He emphasized the need to leave a legacy of progressive governance, and proposed the creation of a new APC national secretariat in the Federal Capital Territory. He directed APC governors to liaise with the FCT Minister to secure land for the project.

Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to stabilizing the economy, noting that though economic reforms are difficult, they are already yielding results. “There is no other direction for this country except upward,” he declared.

Security, Food Sovereignty, and Progressive Governance

On security, Tinubu reported major gains in the fight against terrorism and banditry, claiming “thousands of terrorists and bandits have been neutralized.” He called for sustained investment in security infrastructure to ensure peace.

The President also reiterated his administration’s push for food sovereignty, urging state governments to support agricultural initiatives aimed at reducing dependence on food imports.

Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda Emerges as APC National Chairman

During the NEC meeting, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, former governorship candidate in Plateau State and Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, was elected as the new APC National Chairman. His nomination was moved by Governor Hope Uzodimma and seconded by House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.

Yilwatda pledged to unite and expand the APC, stating, “Together, we will fix the APC vehicle and drive it to our desired destination.” He described his emergence as humbling and vowed to foster inclusive leadership.

Unity, Defections, and 2027 Ambitions

Tinubu welcomed Governors Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta) and Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom) into the APC, describing their defection as a sign of national unity. He congratulated Governor Monday Okpebholo on his Supreme Court victory in Edo and praised his administration’s recent transport initiative, “Edo Line.”

Looking ahead, Yilwatda expressed confidence in the APC’s future, declaring that “2027 is a done deal” under President Tinubu’s leadership.

Osinbajo Reflects on Buhari’s Legacy

At a brief session honoring late former President Muhammadu Buhari, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo praised Buhari’s integrity and adherence to democratic principles. “He proved that you can serve with honesty, transparency, and integrity,” Osinbajo said.

Ganduje Backs Yilwatda’s Appointment

Immediate past APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, thanked Tinubu for appointing Yilwatda and expressed confidence in his leadership. He noted the transition comes at a critical time for the party and assured continued support in building the APC’s ideological foundation.

CUPP: Tinubu Rattled by Opposition Coalition

Reacting to the President’s comments, CUPP Secretary Peter Ameh said Tinubu’s remarks reflect anxiety over a united opposition. “The defections to APC carry little political value,” he said. “The opposition coalition is stronger than ever and committed to leading with integrity.”

Ameh criticized the use of state institutions to intimidate opposition leaders, claiming Tinubu’s focus has shifted from governance to self-preservation ahead of 2027.