Ray Kene Ogbodo, the 2023 governorship candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in Enugu State, has thrown his weight behind the emerging opposition coalition, commending its decision to adopt the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its central political platform.
In a statement released in Enugu on Friday, Ogbodo described the coalition as a “bold and historic movement” capable of rescuing Nigeria from the grip of insecurity, economic hardship, and poor leadership.
He noted that the country is in dire need of a united and visionary political force that transcends ethnic and regional divides — one focused on policy, people-oriented leadership, and transparent governance.
“Nigeria has suffered from decades of elite manipulation, bad governance, and weak institutions,” Ogbodo said. “The adoption of ADC as the platform for a united opposition is a clear signal that the time has come to dismantle the old order and build a new Nigeria that works for everyone.”
While not explicitly declaring a defection from the AAC, it was noted that Ogbodo, who was dismissed from AAC, emphasized that he is fully aligned with the ideals of the coalition, which includes prominent figures from various opposition parties, civil society, and youth-led movements. He called on Nigerians, especially the youth and the working class, to rally behind the coalition and demand accountability from those in power.
The opposition coalition — whose architects include former presidential candidates, civil rights activists, and disaffected leaders from established parties — announced earlier in the week that the ADC would serve as its rallying platform ahead of the 2027 general elections. The goal, according to organizers, is to unify fragmented political interests into a formidable challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the main opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Ogbodo expressed optimism that the coalition’s approach will usher in a new era of inclusive politics.
“This is not just about elections; it’s about national rebirth. Nigerians are tired of hunger, joblessness, and insecurity. We must end the recycling of the same political elites who have failed this country repeatedly,” he stated.
He also urged civil society organizations, traditional institutions, religious leaders, and the diaspora community to engage more actively in the push for democratic reforms and credible alternatives.
As Nigeria inches toward the 2027 elections, the emergence of this opposition coalition — and endorsements like Ogbodo’s — are being closely watched by political analysts, who say its success will depend on unity, clear messaging, and the ability to galvanize voters disillusioned by the status quo.