By Daniel Abia

PORT HARCOURT — The Rivers State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has dismissed concerns over the political influence of the Rainbow Coalition, a political movement associated with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, insisting that electoral success ultimately depends on the will of the people.

State Chairman of the party, Dr. Chukwudi Dimkpa, said the ADC remains focused on strengthening its grassroots structures, presenting credible candidates and offering practical solutions to the challenges facing Nigerians rather than engaging in political battles with rival groups.

Speaking on Thursday, Dimkpa said democracy thrives on healthy competition and that every political party has the constitutional right to seek the mandate of the electorate.

“While we welcome the emergence of new political movements, the ADC remains focused on building a strong grassroots structure, presenting credible candidates and offering practical solutions to the challenges facing Nigerians,” he said.

According to him, the party’s strategy is centred on connecting with the people and promoting competence, credibility and capacity in governance.

“We believe that by presenting a clear vision and demonstrating our commitment to good governance, the ADC will remain a formidable force in the political landscape. Ultimately, power belongs to the people, not political parties. The party that earns the trust of the people will prevail,” he stated.

Dimkpa maintained that the ADC remains a people-oriented party with a strong presence across the country, noting that its core values of internal democracy, inclusiveness, transparency and commitment to national development remain unchanged despite political realignments.

“Political parties will continue to experience alignments and realignments. What remains constant is our commitment to serving the people. We are confident that many Nigerians still see ADC as a credible alternative and a platform for genuine change,” he said.

On the 2027 elections in Rivers State, the ADC chairman said the party would market its candidate based on competence, character, experience and vision rather than ethnic considerations.

“We believe Rivers people are politically sophisticated enough to look beyond ethnic sentiments and support the candidate who offers the best roadmap for the future. Our candidate will be presented on merit, capacity and a clear agenda for development,” he added.

Addressing concerns about possible external influence in future elections, Dimkpa said an informed and vigilant electorate remains the strongest safeguard for democracy.

He disclosed that the party plans to strengthen its structures at ward, local government and state levels, while investing in voter education, election monitoring and the training of party agents.

“We also believe that civil society organisations, the media, security agencies and the international community all have important roles to play in safeguarding democracy,” he said.

Dimkpa further urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to uphold its constitutional responsibility by conducting free, fair and credible elections in 2027.

“We expect the Commission to discharge its responsibility professionally. We will support every effort aimed at improving transparency, accountability and voter confidence, while advocating strict adherence to electoral laws and procedures,” he said.

He stressed that the credibility of the 2027 general elections would be critical not only for political parties but also for Nigeria’s democratic future and national stability.

“At the end of the day, Nigerians deserve elections in which every vote counts and every voter matters,” he added.