The African Action Congress (AAC) has criticised the recently unveiled opposition coalition led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing it as a political arrangement driven by elite interests and lacking public credibility.

In a statement released on Friday and signed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Femi Adeyeye, the AAC dismissed the coalition—spearheaded by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai—as a “fraudulent elite club” formed by politicians who have failed to address the country’s challenges.

The coalition, known as the Coalition for a New Nigeria Movement, was announced earlier this week. It brings together members of various opposition parties and political figures, including former Senate President David Mark, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and former Attorney-General of the Federation Abubakar Malami. El-Rufai recently defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) before aligning with the ADC.

Adeyeye said the AAC had experienced a surge in party registration since the coalition’s unveiling, claiming that the development reflects growing public discontent with conventional political actors.

“In a twist of events, since the announcement of the latest ruling class’ fake product — the ADC Coalition — the last 48 hours have been tremendous for us at the African Action Congress (AAC) as we can confirm that conscientious Nigerians are moving into our party in droves,” the statement read.

“Data available at the party secretariat can confirm an average of 240 registrations per hour. This membership registration pace has been nothing short of amazing,” he added.

He attributed the interest in AAC to a broader disillusionment with what he described as the “grouping and regrouping of failed and expired politicians,” urging Nigerians seeking genuine political change to look beyond established figures.

Adeyeye also called for greater involvement in the party’s programmes, particularly among supporters in the diaspora. “We understand that there are supporters of the party and its ideals across the world who wish to remain as supporters. We urge you to take your support to the next level by getting involved in party activities and becoming full members,” he said.

The AAC reiterated its advocacy for what it called a “Coalition of the Oppressed (COOP),” which it claims better represents the interests of ordinary Nigerians. “What Nigeria needs now is the Coalition of the Oppressed. We encourage those who are yet to join us to register,” Adeyeye said.

While the ADC-led coalition has framed its formation as an effort to build a united opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections, critics like the AAC argue that it fails to present a credible alternative to the current political order.