The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on Nigerians to draw lessons from the November 3 United States midterm elections, arguing that the outcome demonstrates the power of citizens to hold governments accountable through the ballot box. The party says Nigeria's 2027 general elections present an opportunity for voters to make their voices heard on the economy, security and the quality of governance.

In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC said the results of the US midterm elections offer an important lesson for democratic societies, particularly countries where citizens are dissatisfied with the performance of those in power.

The party noted that American voters delivered a significant electoral setback to the ruling Republican Party, with the opposition Democratic Party winning control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate. The result followed widespread voter dissatisfaction with economic conditions, high living costs and other policy concerns confronting the country.

According to the ADC, the outcome reinforces a fundamental principle of democracy: political authority ultimately rests with the people, whose votes provide a powerful means of rewarding performance and demanding accountability from elected leaders.

“Americans have shown that when politicians become arrogant, when policies punish ordinary people, and when those in power mistake popularity for a permanent licence to govern, the ballot box remains the ultimate instrument of accountability,” the party stated.

The ADC argued that elections should be determined by issues that directly affect citizens' lives, rather than political sentiments, party loyalty or the personality of individual leaders.

It maintained that no political leader or party should consider its hold on power permanent, stressing that the responsibility of every government is to serve the interests and aspirations of the people.

“American voters understand something Nigerians must also learn: elections are about the welfare of the citizens, not sentiments, political loyalties or personality cults. No leader is bigger than the people, and no political party is entitled to power forever,” the statement added.

ADC Criticises Tinubu-Led APC Government Over Economic Hardship and Insecurity

Turning its attention to Nigeria, the ADC expressed concern over what it described as worsening economic hardship, rising insecurity and diminishing opportunities under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The opposition party questioned why Nigerians should be expected to renew the governing party's mandate in 2027 without a meaningful assessment of its performance and the impact of its policies on their daily lives.

According to the ADC, issues such as the rising cost of living, personal security, employment and economic opportunities should occupy a central place in the national conversation ahead of the next general elections.

“We cannot continue to complain about the cost of living while voting for a President who has made life unaffordable. We cannot demand security while rewarding failure. We cannot earnestly yearn for change while sustaining the very political system responsible for our collective impoverishment,” the party declared.

2027 Elections: ADC Calls for Greater Voter Participation

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the ADC called on Nigerians to recognise the importance of their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and use their voting rights to influence the country's political and economic direction.

The party described the forthcoming elections as a defining opportunity for citizens to evaluate the performance of the current administration, consider alternative policy proposals and make decisions based on their interests and expectations.

It urged Nigerians to participate actively in the democratic process, emphasising that voter participation remains essential to ensuring accountability and strengthening democratic governance.

“History beckons in 2027. Our voters' cards must become instruments of change, not souvenirs of citizenship. Nigerians must turn out massively and vote for their own interests,” the statement said.

ADC Presents Its Alternative on Affordability, Security and Jobs

The ADC also used the statement to reaffirm its commitment to presenting an alternative political direction for Nigeria, anchored on economic affordability, improved national security and employment opportunities.

The party outlined three central priorities in its message to Nigerians:

• Make Nigeria Affordable Again: Addressing the cost-of-living challenges and creating conditions that make life more affordable for ordinary Nigerians.

• Make Nigeria Safe Again: Tackling insecurity and restoring the safety and confidence of citizens across the country.

• Give Nigerians Jobs Again: Expanding employment opportunities and promoting an economy that provides meaningful prospects for Nigerians.

Describing these priorities as central to its political proposition, the ADC said Nigerians deserve an opportunity to assess different approaches to addressing the country's challenges ahead of the 2027 elections.

Drawing a parallel between the American experience and Nigeria's democratic journey, the party maintained that citizens in both countries have the constitutional power to demand better governance through their votes.

“If Americans can use their votes to demand better, Nigerians can do the same. In 2027, let our votes speak louder than the APC-induced suffering,” the ADC concluded.