A fresh wave of political tension has hit the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and its allies after reports that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) moved against key opposition figures ahead of the 2027 general election.
The unexpected development came after former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal was grilled on Monday over alleged fraudulent cash withdrawals totaling ₦189 billion.
He arrived at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja around 11:30 a.m. and was questioned on what officials described as “flagrant violations” of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
“He is being held over alleged fraudulent cash withdrawals to the tune of ₦189 billion,” a source told The PUNCH.
Another EFCC official confirmed Tambuwal’s continued detention while investigations were ongoing.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale declined to comment directly on the case but stressed that the commission’s actions were guided by evidence rather than politics.
However, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi alleged that three former governors in the coalition, some now serving as lawmakers, were also being targeted.
“This is an attempt to force them to leave the coalition or to intimidate them into not taking an active part in it,” Abdullahi said.
In a strongly worded statement, the ADC accused the EFCC of acting as a “department of the APC” by reopening old cases against opposition leaders while ignoring allegations involving ruling party members.
“These are not fresh cases arising from new evidence but new files opened in reaction to emergent political affiliations,” the statement read.
Oyewale dismissed the claims as “untenable and ridiculous,” challenging the ADC to back its statements with facts.
Yet, insiders say the crackdown has sparked fear in the coalition. One described it as a “brazen show of power” aimed at scaring off potential challengers to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.
The internal rift within the alliance is also widening.
The Obidient Movement, led by Tanko Yunusa, accused ADC leaders of sidelining Peter Obi’s loyalists in major decisions.
Meanwhile, several high-profile politicians once linked to the coalition, including former Lagos Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and ex-Ekiti Governor Kayode Fayemi, have publicly reaffirmed loyalty to the APC.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reportedly paused plans to formally join the ADC.
Speculation is also growing over a possible 2027 run by ex-President Goodluck Jonathan.
Within the ADC itself, leadership changes are reshaping strategy.
Deputy National Chairman Nafiu Bala has taken over as Acting National Chairman after Ralph Okey Nwosu’s resignation.
Bala, who contested the 2023 governorship election in Gombe, pledged to rebuild party structures and seek strong alliances.
“Together, we will build a stronger, more united, and effective political party in Nigeria,” Bala told supporters in Abuja.
For now, the political landscape remains unsettled. With allegations flying and the phrase “EFCC targets ADC leaders” now dominating opposition discussions, the coming months could redefine the road to 2027.
