March 27, 2025 – Abuja — In a bold and objectively charged presentation at the African Democratic Congress (ADC) National Headquarters, Chief Ralphs Okey Nwosu, National Chairman of the ADC, convened party officials and representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to sound a clarion call for the restoration of Nigeria’s democracy and national integrity.

The meeting began on a solemn note as Chief Nwosu led attendees in a three-minute silence in honor of two departed Nigerian statesmen, Pa Ayo Adebanjo and Chief Edwin Clarke. “Even in death,” he said, “these two remain the beacons to help us shape our character and leadership for a better Nigeria. The void they leave is deep and wide, but their teachings have prepared many of us to continue the struggle.”

Chief Nwosu decried the current state of the nation’s democracy as “inexplicably tragic,” describing the post-2023 electoral climate as one steeped in disillusionment and democratic erosion. He warned that despite over 70 million Nigerians holding Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in 2023, and that number now surpassing 100 million, the electorate has remained helpless in the face of electoral malpractice, insecurity, and hunger.

“There is fire on the mountain,” he declared. “Even the 8 million who voted for President Bola Tinubu are not spared from the suffering. Our democracy is under siege, and we must not allow a handful of individuals to continue casting a voodoo spell over this great nation.”

Chief Nwosu emphasized that the ADC, with over 80 million disenfranchised adult Nigerians ready to join its mission, is determined to reverse the decline. “We are building momentum. More than half of those who once supported the ruling APC are now pledging their allegiance to the ADC once they see we are sincere.”

He announced that a comprehensive "Marshall Plan" and strategic framework for reclaiming Nigeria would be unveiled in the coming months, promising it would reposition the country for global relevance.

“Our mobilization efforts will leave no one in doubt that our country's rescue is assured and that Nigeria's democracy moving forward will become an exemplar for the free world.”

Chief Nwosu did not shy away from addressing the current political crises. He condemned the imposition of an emergency rule in Rivers State, calling it “undemocratic, unconstitutional, and callous,” and demanded the immediate restoration of the state’s elected government.

He also called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and issue a public apology from the Senate, referencing the senator’s sexual harassment allegations. “The Senate must do the right thing… constitute a panel and uphold accountability and respect for every member,” he said.

Directly addressing Nigeria’s political leadership, Chief Nwosu declared, “Enough is enough. The imperial majesty, swagger, and bragadashoo of some of our leaders must be checked. We cannot allow a few men to bring our nation of over 200 million into ridicule. Let our people breathe.”

In a message of unity and determination, he stated, “Just like the Boy Scouts admonish: We are ready. Not only for the urgency of now, but for a value-driven, transformational journey that will light up this continent.”

Chief Nwosu revealed that ADC had already extended a symbolic handshake to over 20 civil society organizations, including the Farmer Club, the Justice Group, and the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy Movement (COPDEM), which have mobilized more than 5 million new members into the party in just two months.

Looking ahead, he announced a major move for party advancement: the National Working Committee (NWC) will propose a motion to waive all restrictions, allowing any member, new or old, to contest for positions within the party or seek public office. “We must open our doors to all patriots who wish to help rescue Nigeria,” he declared.

Chief Nwosu concluded with a rousing appeal to join the ADC movement as it prepares for the Handshake Across Nigeria Summit to mobilize 50 million Nigerians by October 1st. “ADC is on the move. Please come with me and commit to this rescue mission.”

He closed with a powerful refrain:
“ADC Arise. ADC Arise. ADC Arise and Shine Nigeria.”