By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

Since the official unveiling of the opposition coalition on July 2, 2025, speculation has swirled about how long it will survive compared to previous opposition parties that were crushed by the ruling APC before past general elections.

There is growing concern among many Nigerians as to whether the newly formed coalition can truly offer solutions to the country’s persistent challenges. The achievements and pitfalls of coalition leaders Atiku, El-Rufai, Amaechi, Obi, and others have triggered heated debates on whether this alliance has what it takes to deliver if elected.

Nigeria continues to grapple with three critical sectors: security, economy, and education. Successive administrations have made attempts at reform, but progress remains elusive.

Nationwide Pulse Check: Nigerians Speak Out on the ADC

To capture the nation’s mood, Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa of Nigerian Tracker interviewed citizens across the country. Here’s what they had to say:

Ibrahim Isah (Niger State) condemned the current administration, expressing regret for having trusted President Tinubu to deliver. “I was part of those who voted for President Tinubu because I believed he would replicate what he did in Lagos, but unfortunately, he has failed, and I am very disappointed. Under his administration, the country’s security architecture is nothing to write home about.” Isah said he is now canvassing for the coalition, citing confidence in figures like El-Rufai.

Sati Godwin (Kaduna State) assessed the coalition leaders, highlighting El-Rufai’s strong economic and infrastructural record but criticizing his approach to security. Godwin questioned Atiku’s reputation and Peter Obi’s unifying abilities: “They are not fit to deliver if elected.”

Muhammad Awwal Ali (Lagos), despite criticizing Tinubu’s governance and rating him 4/10, dismissed the coalition’s ability to solve Nigeria’s problems. He cited concerns over the coalition’s readiness and the limited timeframe a leader like Obi suggests for reform.

Aliyu Abdullahi (Plateau State) described the coalition as “old wine in a new bottle,” arguing that these leaders were part of Nigeria’s longstanding woes. However, he suggested waiting for their manifestos before final judgment.

Sahabi Zubairu Adamu (Kaduna State) acknowledged the mixed records of coalition leaders but expressed belief in their potential. He rated Tinubu’s administration a 5/10, noting educational improvements but highlighting the need for broader reforms.

Mr. Olumuyiwa Aladeyelu (Ekiti) labeled the coalition leaders “power mongers,” suggesting their formation is valuable mainly for providing opposition. He rated Tinubu’s administration poorly, at 2/10, due to economic and security failings.

Maikano Hadasa Amos (Kaduna State) remarked that without Peter Obi, the coalition would have little traction, criticizing other key figures. However, she acknowledged Tinubu’s improvements in the education sector, rating him 5/10.

Mariam Isah (Anambra, resident in Kaduna) asserted that the setbacks of coalition leaders overwhelmingly outweigh their achievements, and called for youth and women to take leadership roles. She gave Tinubu’s administration a stark 1/10.

Asiya Suleiman Dabu praised some coalition members’ track records, particularly El-Rufai and Atiku, but doubted their ability to enact countrywide change alone. She rated Tinubu’s administration 6/10 for educational reforms and signaled she would consider voting coalition if the right ticket emerged.

The rise of the coalition party ADC has set off a fierce nationwide debate over its viability as both a formidable opposition and a credible alternative to the APC. With the 2027 elections on the horizon, the coalition’s fate will hinge on its unity, ability to offer actionable solutions, and success in convincing a weary electorate that it is more than recycled leadership.

For now, Nigeria’s verdict remains split: equal parts hope and distrust. The months ahead will reveal whether this coalition can transcend skepticism and transform the Nigerian political landscape.