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By Oscar Okhifo
The Rivers State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has expressed confidence in its chances ahead of the 2027 general elections, dismissing suggestions that the emerging Rainbow Coalition, believed to enjoy the backing of Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, poses a significant threat to its political fortunes in the state.
The party said rather than becoming preoccupied with the activities of rival political groups, it is focused on expanding its grassroots structures, deepening voter engagement, and positioning itself as a credible alternative for Rivers people.
Speaking on Thursday, the State Chairman of the ADC, Dr. Chukwudi Dimkpa, described political competition as a healthy feature of democracy, noting that every political platform has the constitutional right to canvass support and seek electoral victory.
He maintained that the emergence of new alliances and coalitions would not alter the party’s strategic focus, which he said remains centred on strengthening its presence across the state and presenting candidates capable of addressing the aspirations of the electorate.
According to Dimkpa, the ADC is committed to offering practical solutions to Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges and believes voters are increasingly more interested in competence, credibility, and effective leadership than in political rhetoric and shifting alliances.
The party said democracy thrives on political competition and maintained that every political platform has a constitutional right to seek the support of voters, stressing that the ADC would not be distracted by rival political movements.
The ADC chairman described the party as a people-oriented platform with a growing national presence and enduring values that continue to resonate with Nigerians.
“While individuals may choose different political platforms, the values that made ADC attractive to Nigerians remain intact. Internal democracy, inclusiveness, transparency, and a commitment to national development, are along our selling points and uniqueness ” he stated.
“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.”
Addressing concerns over ethnic politics in Rivers State, Dimkpa said the party would place emphasis on competence, character, experience, and vision in selecting and presenting its candidates.
He expressed confidence that Rivers voters would prioritise performance and leadership capacity over ethnic considerations.
“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.
On concerns about the influence of federal power during elections, the ADC chairman argued that the most effective safeguard against undue interference remains an informed and vigilant electorate.
He disclosed that the party plans to strengthen its structures across wards and local government areas while investing heavily in voter education, election monitoring, and the training of polling agents.
“As a party, we intend to strengthen our structures at the ward, local government, and state levels. We will invest heavily in voter education, election monitoring, agent training, and lawful engagement with relevant institutions,” he said.
“We also believe that civil society organisations, the media, security agencies, and the international community all have important roles to play in safeguarding democracy.”
Dimkpa also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a level playing field for all political parties and to conduct elections that are transparent, free, and credible.
“INEC should conduct free, fair, and credible elections, and we expect the Commission to discharge that responsibility professionally,” he said.
“We acknowledge that there have been concerns and controversies surrounding previous elections, but democracy requires us to continue engaging constructively with the electoral process.”
He added that the ADC would continue to support reforms aimed at improving electoral transparency and public confidence in the democratic process.
“We will support every effort aimed at improving transparency, accountability, and voter confidence. We will also continue to advocate for strict adherence to electoral laws and procedures,” he said.
Dimkpa reiterated that the success and credibility of the 2027 general elections would be central not only to political actors but also to the consolidation of Nigeria’s democratic system and national stability.
He stressed that Nigerians must be guaranteed an electoral process in which every vote is meaningful, insisting that public confidence in the system remains critical to democratic legitimacy.
“At the end of the day, Nigerians deserve elections in which every vote counts and every voter matters,” he added.