2027: ADC Unveils Membership Drive, Vows to Defeat APC

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has formally launched a nationwide membership drive ahead of the 2027 general elections, declaring its ambition to unseat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Party leaders described the initiative as the foundation of a broader strategy to build a credible political structure capable of winning power at the federal level.

Speaking at the unveiling, party officials emphasised inclusiveness, transparency, and accountability as the cornerstones of the new registration process. They also pledged to avoid practices that have historically undermined internal party democracy in Nigeria, particularly the inflation of membership figures for political optics.

Building a ‘Register of Conviction’

In a keynote address titled “A Register of Conviction, Not Convenience,” the ADC National Secretary warned against the widespread practice of artificially expanding party membership rolls. He described the trend as an illusion of strength that ultimately weakens political institutions.

According to him, many parties inflate registers with duplicate or fictitious entries to project influence. “The registers are fat, but the structures are hollow,” he said, cautioning that such tactics erode accountability and weaken governance capacity. He stressed that the ADC must resist the temptation to “bloat figures with imaginary people,” arguing that electoral success requires a solid and verifiable grassroots base.

Former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola reinforced the message, urging the party to build a credible and transparent membership structure. He said the ADC’s objective extends beyond contesting elections to redefining democratic standards in Nigeria. He emphasised that internal accountability, consultation, and strict adherence to the party constitution would be essential if the ADC hopes to earn public trust.

Dual Registration System to Expand Access

To ensure inclusiveness, the ADC unveiled a hybrid registration system combining online and manual processes. The National Chairman, David Mark stated that membership cards would be issued upon request to prevent hoarding and misuse. Each state is to receive an initial allocation of 50,000 cards to commence the exercise.

The ADC leadership explained that reliance solely on digital platforms could exclude Nigerians with limited internet access. “We want manual registration to go alongside online registration,” a party official said, noting that internet penetration remains uneven across the country. The approach, they argued, would prevent disenfranchisement and broaden participation.

Malik Ado-Ibrahim and other party stakeholders clarified that the platform is structured as a web application rather than a conventional website or downloadable app. They cited concerns about accessibility, potential technical failures, and user reluctance to install additional applications.

Technology, Verification and Accountability

Activist Aisha Yesufu highlighted the technological features of the digital registration system, describing it as secure and efficient. She explained that registration can be completed within minutes and includes passport photographs and QR codes for verification purposes.

The platform relies primarily on voters’ identification numbers to authenticate members, an approach the party says will enhance credibility and prevent duplication. Yesufu added that members can retrieve their registration details at any time through the system, strengthening transparency.

ADC leaders concluded the event by reiterating their commitment to internal governance reforms. They argued that effective self-regulation, financial accountability, and adherence to constitutional procedures within the party are prerequisites for national leadership. As preparations intensify for 2027, the ADC’s membership drive represents its first major structural step toward its stated goal of forming the next federal government.