Veteran journalist and politician Dele Momodu has advised the African Democratic Congress to adopt a “northern strategy” if they intend to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027. Speaking at a political forum, Momodu argued that the path to the presidency in Nigeria traditionally runs through the northern region’s massive voting bloc. He believes that for a third-force party like the ADC to be successful, they must build strong alliances with influential northern leaders and grassroots movements.
Momodu noted that the current political landscape is heavily weighted in favor of the incumbent, making it difficult for fragmented opposition parties to make a dent. By focusing on the North, the ADC can tap into a region that is often looking for viable alternatives to the status quo. He urged the party to move beyond regional sentiments and present a candidate who has national appeal and a deep understanding of northern politics.
Building a national consensus for political change
The ADC has been positioning itself as the primary alternative to the APC and the PDP, but Momodu believes they need more than just good intentions. He suggested that the party must begin early mobilization in states like Kano, Kaduna, and Bauchi to create a solid foundation for their 2027 campaign. A “northern strategy” involves more than just picking a northern candidate; it requires a genuine engagement with the region’s unique challenges, such as security and education.
Momodu highlighted that the North is not a monolith and that different states have different political leanings that the ADC must navigate carefully. He encouraged the party to work with young, vibrant northern politicians who are ready to break away from the old order. This approach, he argues, will provide the ADC with the necessary momentum to compete on a level playing field with the established giants.
The challenge of taking on an incumbent president
Challenging a sitting president in Nigeria is a daunting task that requires significant resources and a highly organized campaign structure. Momodu warned that the APC is already consolidating its power and will use every tool at its disposal to retain the presidency. For the ADC to succeed, they must present a clear and compelling vision that resonates with the average Nigerian struggling with economic hardship.
He emphasized that the opposition cannot afford to wait until 2026 to start their planning and alliance-building efforts. The strategy for 2027 must be laid out now, with a focus on unity and strategic partnerships across the six geopolitical zones. Momodu’s call for a northern strategy is seen as a wake-up call for the ADC to be more pragmatic in their approach to power.
Future of the ADC in the 2027 general elections
The ADC leadership has responded to Momodu’s advice, stating that they are already in the process of reviewing their electoral strategy. They acknowledge that the North plays a crucial role in any presidential victory and are looking for ways to deepen their presence in the region. The party intends to hold a series of town hall meetings across northern states to listen to the concerns of the people.
As the political temperature in the country begins to rise, the ADC remains one of the most interesting parties to watch. Whether they can successfully implement a “northern strategy” remains to be seen, but the advice from a seasoned observer like Dele Momodu cannot be ignored. The road to 2027 is long, and every strategic move will count in the quest for the highest office in the land.
