COPDEM, ADC sign alliance for citizen mobilization.

 

By Anayo Akwitti

Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), have formalised a strategic alliance in recognition of what they say is the urgent need for a structured, coordinated, and disciplined approach to mobilizing civil society and progressive forces across Nigeria.

To this end both civil society groups have resolved to introduce the Directorate of Mobilisation, Civil Societies and Progressives Engagements —a critical organ dedicated to uniting like-minded groups, activists, and organizations in a common mission: building a politically engaged citizenry that will drive democratic change at all levels of governance.

Both groups believe that for too long, Nigeria’s civil society and progressive forces have operated in silos adding that this has weakened the opposition, scattered our collective energy, and allowed the status quo to persist.

In a statement made available to Democracy Radio on Friday, National Chairman of COPDEM, Prince Rwang Pam , the groups say; “This must change.

The Directorate will serve as a bridge—bringing together advocacy groups, grassroots movements, and political actors under a unified structure that can effectively challenge power, influence policies, and drive electoral victories.”

He said the signing of the COPDEM-ADC Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is not just about two groups coming together but part of a broader strategy to institutionalize opposition politics and transform advocacy into real political influence.

“This integration Will strengthen ADC as the leading platform for progressive forces,ensure grassroots and civil society participation in shaping Nigeria’s political future and mobilize all 36 states and the FCT toward issue-based, people-centered governance.” he said.

Pam added that the alliance will also provide a clear, disciplined, and results-driven political alternative through the Directorate for Mobilisation of Civil Societies and Progressive Organisations to ensure that COPDEM’s vast grassroots network and ADC’s political structure are utilised to engage.

He said;”The Directorate is not a bureaucratic structure; it is an action-oriented platform that will channel grassroots energy into real proactive political power. To opposition forces across Nigeria—we must move beyond fragmentation. This is the time to consolidate our strengths,unify our efforts, and build a truly formidable opposition.”

He reminded the international community that Nigeria’s democracy is at a turning point, and the role of civil society in shaping electoral outcomes and governance cannot be ignored.

COPDEM called on all democratic institutions and partners to engage with this emerging force for change.