Kola Ologbondiyan, a former PDP National Publicity Secretary and current media advisor for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), believes there is still a pathway for a grand coalition of opposition forces ahead of the 2027 general election. He argues that the momentum from the Ibadan meeting remains relevant, suggesting that opposition parties can still reorganize to address the nation’s downward trajectory.
Regarding the exit of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso from the ADC-led coalition, Ologbondiyan claims the decision was premature, as discussions were ongoing. He asserts that a government of national unity is the most effective way to rescue Nigeria and believes the opportunity for a unified platform is not lost. He emphasizes that the ultimate political challenge for President Bola Tinubu in 2027 will not stem from opposition figures, but rather from a populace struggling with severe economic hardship and rising living costs.
Addressing the state of the PDP, Ologbondiyan expressed reservations about whether the party currently serves its intended purpose as a strong opposition entity. In contrast, he highlighted the ADC’s consistent focus on democratic accountability. He dismissed concerns about legal hurdles meant to disrupt smaller parties, asserting that the judiciary will uphold the law, and warned that attempts to interfere with party registration only serve to undermine the nation’s democratic foundations.
Ologbondiyan identified the ADC’s primary mission as opposing single-man rule and fostering a government that genuinely prioritizes the welfare of the people. He concluded that voters do not need to be persuaded by rhetoric, as the prevailing economic environment, characterized by inflation and fuel subsidy issues, speaks for itself in shaping the public’s resolve for the upcoming election.