Former Edo State Governor and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, John Odigie-Oyegun, has apologised to Nigerians for supporting the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu in the 2023 general election.
Oyegun, who served as APC national chairman from 2015 to 2019 before defecting to the ADC in 2026, described the party’s victory in 2023 as a mistake, saying Nigerians were bearing the consequences. He made the remarks in Benin City during a town hall meeting where the ADC received former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi.
Oyegun said the 2027 general election would provide Nigerians with an opportunity to reconsider their political choices and pursue a different direction for the country.
“Today, we are suffering from the terrible mistake of 2023 nationwide. Now is the time to rescue the nation by presenting former Vice President Atiku and his running mate, Rotimi Amaechi, to rescue the nation,” he said.
He added that the ADC intended to position itself as an alternative, citing former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s experience and Amaechi’s political record.
“The ADC mission now is to rescue the nation. Yes, we made such a mistake, but we are bringing Atiku, with his vast experience, and Amaechi, who is fearless. We were deceived once, and we won’t allow ourselves to be deceived again,” Oyegun said.
Oyegun also expressed concern about alleged political intimidation in Edo State, particularly reported threats involving AK-47 rifles. He questioned whether such conditions reflected the political environment residents wanted.
Amaechi Criticises Tinubu’s Economic Policies
Speaking at the event, Amaechi criticised the economic policies of the Tinubu administration, arguing that they had increased the financial pressure on ordinary Nigerians.
He singled out the removal of the petrol subsidy, saying it had contributed to rising inflation and made living costs more difficult for households. The former Rivers governor called attention to the effects of higher prices on Nigerians already struggling with the cost of essential goods and services.
The meeting formed part of the ADC’s political activities ahead of the 2027 general election, as opposition figures seek to challenge the ruling APC. Oyegun’s remarks reflect his shift from his former party to the ADC and his criticism of the administration he once helped bring to power. His comments also signal the political messaging likely to feature prominently as parties prepare for the next election.
