The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Rivers State has dismissed concerns over the political influence of the ‘Rainbow Coalition’, a political movement linked to the minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, ahead of the 2027 general election.
Speaking with journalists in Port Harcourt yesterday, the state chairman of the party, Dr Chukwudi Dimkpa, said democracy thrives on healthy competition and that every political party has the constitutional right to seek the mandate of the electorate.
Dimkpa said the ADC remains focused on strengthening its grassroots presence, presenting credible candidates and offering practical solutions to issues affecting Nigerians rather than being distracted by emerging political movements.
“While we welcome the emergence of new political movements, the ADC remains focused on building a strong grassroots structure, presenting credible candidates and offering practical solutions to the challenges facing Nigerians,” he said.
According to him, the party’s strategy is not built around confronting any political bloc but around engaging directly with the people.
“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,” Dimkpa stated.
The ADC chairman maintained that the party remains people-oriented with a strong presence across the country despite political alignments and shifting alliances.
“While individuals may choose different political platforms, the values that made ADC attractive to Nigerians remain intact, internal democracy, inclusiveness, transparency and 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 said.
On the party’s approach to the 2027 contest in Rivers State, Dimkpa said emphasis would be placed on the competence, character, experience and vision of its eventual candidate.
“We believe Rivers people are politically sophisticated enough to look beyond ethnic sentiments and support the candidate who offers the best roadmap for the future. Our candidate will be marketed on merit, capacity and a clear agenda for development,” he said.
Addressing concerns over possible federal influence during elections, the ADC chairman argued that the strongest safeguard remains an informed, vigilant and determined electorate.
He said the party plans to strengthen its structures across wards, local governments and the state through 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 all have important roles to play in safeguarding democracy,” he added.
Dimkpa expressed confidence that when the will of the people is overwhelming and properly protected, it becomes difficult for any external influence to alter election outcomes.
He also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to uphold its constitutional responsibility of conducting free, fair and credible elections.
“We acknowledge that there have been concerns and controversies surrounding previous elections, but democracy requires us to continue engaging constructively with the electoral process.
“We will support every effort aimed at improving transparency, accountability and voter confidence. We will also continue to advocate strict adherence to electoral laws and procedures,” he said.
Dimkpa stressed that the credibility of the 2027 elections would be critical not only for political parties but also for Nigeria’s democratic future and stability.
“At the end of the day, Nigerians deserve elections in which every vote counts and every voter matters,” he said.