…Presidency denies bribery allegation
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has stirred political waters following a bold revelation by its founder, Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu, who claimed the party rejected multi-billion naira offers and ministerial slots to derail Nigeria’s growing opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during the ADC’s 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held Tuesday in Abuja, Nwosu said the offers were designed to weaken the party’s resolve to lead a united opposition front committed to restoring democratic values. He said the proposals – allegedly made by agents of the Federal Government – included a ministerial slot for himself and two others of his choosing.
“Some politicians think everything has a price. But we in the ADC said no,” Nwosu stated. “We refused every offer, both local and international, because we are driven by principles, not profit. We chose to stand by democracy”.
Nwosu further described the ADC’s efforts in building a broad opposition alliance as a national turning point, calling on critical institutions – INEC, the judiciary, and the National Assembly – to rise in defense of Nigeria’s democracy. “When democracy is undermined, all our national institutions suffer”, he warned.
However, the Presidency swiftly dismissed Nwosu’s claims as false and baseless. In a statement issued yesterday on his X account, President Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, denied any such offer was made by the administration.
“No government official(s) of whatever rank in our government can promise or grant ministerial slots except Mr. President. If such a promise were made, it would have come directly from him”, Bwala said.
He challenged Nwosu to publicly name the individuals involved in the alleged bribery attempt. “The courage to accuse should also come with the courage to name names”, Bwala added, describing the ADC’s claims as a “descent into political comedy”.
The ADC has recently gained prominence as a convergence platform for major opposition figures, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, and ex-Kaduna state governor, Nasir el-Rufa’i. During Tuesday’s NEC meeting, former Senate President, David Mark was formally installed as the party’s new National Chairman.
As political realignments continue ahead of the 2027 elections, the ADC’s assertions and the Presidency’s rebuttal underscore the rising tension in Nigeria’s evolving opposition landscape.
