The North Central Citizens Council (NCCC) has criticized the newly formed opposition coalition led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, branding it a “coalition of confusion” made up of politicians “desperate for relevance” after years of political setbacks.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, NCCC Publicity Secretary Jonathan Omodayo said the group rejected the African Democratic Congress (ADC)-led alliance because it represents individuals who, in his words, “share a penchant for political manoeuvring rather than genuine service to the people.”
Omodayo argued that while Nigeria continues to face serious challenges, citizens must remain vigilant and recognize that many of the figures now presenting themselves as reformers were key players in creating the very problems they now decry.
“The NCCC stands resolutely against the recent alliance formed by the likes of Atiku Abubakar and other disgruntled political figures. This coalition, which we shall refer to as the ADC alliance, is not only a collection of frustrated individuals but also a manifestation of the confusion and disillusionment that has plagued our political landscape for far too long.” he said.
He described Atiku as “a perennial candidate” whose record is marked by repeated failure to win the trust of voters and fulfill promises made during earlier campaigns. “Instead of learning from past mistakes, Atiku has chosen to alignl with others who share his approach,” he added.
Omodayo also listed other prominent names in the coalition, including Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, David Mark, Rauf Aregbesola, Sule Lamido, Abubakar Malami, and Hadi Sirika. He accused them of contributing to the country’s political and economic stagnation during their time in office.
While acknowledging that political coalitions are an essential part of democracy, Omodayo cautioned against allowing former leaders to rebrand themselves as saviors without scrutiny of their track records.
“The legacy of mismanagement, corruption, and inefficiency that characterized their previous tenures casts a long shadow over their new roles as reformers,” he said. “If Nigeria is currently facing substantial challenges, to what extent are these former leaders responsible for the country’s plight?”
Omodayo urged Nigerians to reject what he called the “politics of grievance” and instead support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which, he said, is laying the foundation for reforms, infrastructure development, and national unity.
With a view to the future of Nigeria, the publicity secretary warned to not let ghosts of the past determine the nation’s future, urging Nigerians not be swayed by “empty promises from those who once had the chance to lead but chose personal gain over public good.”
The NCCC reaffirmed its confidence in Tinubu’s government and called on citizens to remain united and focused on the nation’s progress.