APC, ADC Bicker Over Attacks on Atiku, El-Rufai, Obi, Amaechi

APC, ADC Bicker Over Attacks on Atiku, El-Rufai, Obi, Amaechi

ABUJA — The African Democratic Congress (ADC), backed by a political coalition, clashed with the All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday over attacks on its leaders and claims that the coalition posed a threat to Nigeria.

The APC had referred to ADC-associated leaders—former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, ex-Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and former Rivers Governor Rotimi Amaechi—as a “confused, clueless, rudderless and pitiful gang of opposition elements.”

The APC warned Nigerians against politicians “weaponising ethnicity and religion” in a bid to undermine the north-south rotational presidency agreement.

ADC Responds: Tinubu’s Economic Reforms ‘Heartless’

In a swift counterattack, the ADC criticized President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies, describing them as “heartless.” Meanwhile, the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) labeled APC’s attack on Peter Obi as a “diversionary tactic.”

APC Blasts El-Rufai’s Fall from Grace

APC also took a swipe at El-Rufai, claiming his political fall “requires forensic analysis” after his ministerial nomination failed. APC spokesperson Felix Morka described him as a “political clown,” citing his recent criticism of President Tinubu’s government as “yet another outburst of a waspish politician.”

According to the APC, the attempt to project Atiku as the ADC presidential candidate violates the rotational principle and poses a threat to national unity.

“El-Rufai and Atiku want to do to Nigeria what Atiku did to PDP… Their hijack of ADC is a clear and present threat to national unity.”

Policy Criticism and Fuel Subsidy Debate

APC noted that all major candidates in the 2023 elections supported subsidy removal and foreign exchange reform. It accused Atiku and Obi of hypocrisy for later criticizing Tinubu’s execution of these reforms, which they themselves promised.

The party challenged the ADC to present alternative policies instead of “headline-grabbing attacks.”

ADC’s Vision: Local Solutions, Not Foreign Prescriptions

ADC National Youth Leader Balarabe Rufai argued that the party’s approach is built on local relevance and care for ordinary Nigerians. He criticized APC’s tax policies and heavy-handed  http://El-Rufai plotting to impose Atiku as ADC presidential candidate – APC 11 hours ago Daily Post Nigeria

“ADC’s reforms will be organic, original, and people-focused—unlike APC’s policies dictated by Bretton Woods institutions.”

Rufai also claimed that prominent political figures such as Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar are joining the ADC, and must align with its vision if they hope to thrive under its umbrella.

Defending the Party’s Direction

On concerns about violating the North-South rotation, Rufai insisted the ADC prioritizes democratic reform and good leadership over ethnic politics. “Godfatherism and delegate manipulation will not thrive in the ADC,” he stated.

He emphasized that the party’s goal is to provide a stable system where any leader can succeed, regardless of region or affiliation.

CUPP: APC’s Attacks on Obi Are Distraction

Chief Peter Ameh, National Secretary of CUPP, described the APC’s recent statements against Peter Obi as a smear campaign aimed at hiding its failures.

“Peter Obi’s track record is solid. He promotes transparency, fiscal responsibility, and social protections. APC is simply diverting attention from their own incompetence.”

CUPP criticized the abrupt implementation of fuel subsidy removal by APC, arguing that Obi’s approach was more structured and people-centered. Ameh also questioned the APC’s priorities amidst rising economic hardship in the country.

Conclusion

The war of words between the ruling APC and the ADC-led opposition reflects deepening political tensions ahead of future elections. As accusations and counter-accusations mount, the electorate is left to weigh the competence and sincerity of both camps in addressing Nigeria’s  http://Atiku, Obi, Amaechi, others, most confused, clueless, rudderless politicians – APC 14 hours ago Vanguard News