A major political realignment is taking shape ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, as key opposition figures including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Nasir El-Rufai have agreed to adopt the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as their primary platform to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.
According to a report by The PUNCH, the decision followed a high-level meeting held in Abuja on Tuesday night, where representatives from the camps of Atiku and Obi, alongside other political leaders, reached a consensus on the ADC’s role in their united front.
Multiple sources confirmed that resources are already being deployed to restructure the ADC, with changes expected in its national leadership and board of trustees. This is part of a broader plan to present a cohesive opposition ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking publicly about the gathering, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai said, “Yesterday at 8 p.m., there was a very important meeting of the coalition we are building to ensure that President Tinubu returns to Lagos.”
Though Labour Party loyalists have reaffirmed their commitment to the party, discussions are ongoing to secure a broader agreement. Insiders suggest that proposals include offering Obi a vice-presidential slot, although final decisions on ticket pairing remain undecided.
The ADC’s National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu, confirmed that the party is actively engaging in coalition talks with Atiku, Obi, former Rivers Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and other political stakeholders. He acknowledged the readiness of the party to make internal sacrifices, stating, “Whatever sacrifices are required to move this country forward, we are willing to make them.”
Meanwhile, Babachir Lawal, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, dismissed the possibility of adopting the PDP as a coalition platform, describing the party as irredeemable. He added that the coalition aims to work outside of the traditional structures that many view as compromised.
However, the All Progressives Congress (APC) remains dismissive of the opposition’s plans. Its National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, described President Tinubu as a “grandmaster of coalitions,” expressing confidence in the ruling party’s ability to maintain power in 2027.
While details of the coalition’s leadership and party restructuring are still under wraps, further announcements are expected in the coming days. Political observers are closely watching to see how this alliance unfolds as Nigeria inches closer to another pivotal election cycle.
Article updated 5 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
