The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has challenged the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to test its popularity at the ballot box rather than resort to court processes allegedly aimed at frustrating the opposition party's participation in the 2027 general election.

The Director-General of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, Senator Austin Akobundu, said the growing reception accorded the party's presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, in Sokoto State, and his running mate, Rotimi Amaechi, in Kebbi State, demonstrated increasing public enthusiasm for the party and the demand for an alternative political direction.

Akobundu, in a statement issued on Sunday, thanked supporters and residents of the two states for turning out in large numbers to welcome the ADC candidates.

He, however, accused the Federal Government and the APC-led administration of attempting to exclude the opposition party from the 2027 electoral contest through what he described as a backdoor judicial process.

“If the Federal Government and the APC believe they have the capacity to win, let them allow a free and fair election. Let Nigerians choose without intimidation, obstruction or interference,” he said.

The ADC campaign chief urged the ruling party to stop what he described as attempts to muzzle the political space through court processes designed to remove the party from the electoral contest.

He maintained that democratic competition required allowing Nigerians to freely listen to alternative political ideas, participate in campaign activities and choose their preferred leaders without interference.

“The ballot must remain the people's choice, and every party must be allowed to campaign freely,” he added.

Akobundu also appealed to ADC supporters not to be distracted by the prevailing political tensions, urging them to remain peaceful and intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections.

“Let us continue to campaign peacefully and confidently, knowing that the people's will must prevail,” he urged.

He said the party would sustain its nationwide campaign, focusing on affordable living, expanded opportunities and national renewal, while expressing appreciation to residents and supporters who welcomed its candidates in Sokoto and Kebbi states.