In a bold and decisive move that signals a significant realignment in Nigeria's political landscape, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a stern directive to all its coalition partners who are still affiliated with other major political parties. The order requires them to immediately resign from their current platforms—such as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), All Progressives Congress (APC), and others—and fully register as members of the ADC. This development comes as the party gears up for what promises to be a fiercely contested 2027 general elections, where it aims to mount a formidable challenge against the incumbent President Bola Tinubu and his ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The announcement was made following a high-stakes National Caucus meeting held on Thursday in Abuja, the nation's capital. This gathering, which brought together some of Nigeria's most influential political figures, underscored the ADC's determination to consolidate its forces and eliminate any vestiges of divided loyalty within its ranks. The meeting, described by insiders as intense and strategic, lasted several hours behind closed doors, with discussions focusing on unity, strategy, and the path forward for the coalition.
Speaking to journalists shortly after the session concluded, the ADC's National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Bolaji Abdullahi, provided insights into the key resolutions. He emphasized that the directive for resignation and full integration into the ADC was not merely a suggestion but a "final order." Abdullahi explained that while the caucus had not specified a strict timeline for compliance, the expectation was for swift action. "Though the final order has been given to all members to resign membership of other political parties, the caucus was silent on the timeline," he stated. This flexibility, however, does not dilute the urgency; it reflects the party's confidence in its partners' commitment while allowing for logistical considerations in what could be a complex transition for some individuals.
The rationale behind this move is rooted in the ADC's vision for a unified front. As Abdullahi articulated, "The coalition would no longer tolerate divided loyalty as it prepared for a full-scale challenge against President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027." This statement highlights the strategic imperative: in Nigeria's multiparty democracy, where alliances often make or break electoral outcomes, internal cohesion is paramount. The ADC, historically a smaller player in the national arena, is positioning itself as the vehicle for disaffected politicians and voters seeking an alternative to the dominant APC and the fractured opposition.
One of the most notable figures impacted by this directive is Mr. Peter Obi, the Labour Party's presidential candidate in the 2023 elections. Obi, who garnered widespread support particularly among younger voters and in the southeastern region during his previous campaign, has been a key coalition partner with the ADC. However, he has yet to formally sever ties with the LP. His absence from the Abuja meeting was conspicuous, sparking speculation about his immediate intentions. Sources close to the meeting revealed that Obi had sent his apologies, citing prior commitments, and reaffirmed his dedication to the coalition's goals. "He assured the caucus of his commitment," Abdullahi confirmed, though the lack of a public resignation from the LP leaves room for questions about the timeline of his full transition.
In contrast, former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar made a strong showing at the event. Atiku, a veteran politician and the PDP's presidential flagbearer in both 2019 and 2023, has already taken the step of resigning from the PDP—a move that aligns with the ADC's new requirements. However, he has not yet formalized his membership in the ADC, a process expected to be completed soon. His presence at the meeting was seen as a vote of confidence in the coalition's direction, and it underscored his ongoing influence in Nigerian politics. Atiku's attendance, alongside other heavyweights, added gravitas to the proceedings and signaled to observers that the ADC is attracting top-tier talent.
The meeting was chaired by the ADC's National Chairman, Mr. David Mark, a seasoned statesman with a long history in Nigerian governance. Mark, who served as President of the Senate from 2007 to 2015, brings a wealth of experience in legislative leadership and party management. Under his guidance, the caucus navigated through critical discussions, ensuring that resolutions were consensus-driven. Also in attendance was the party's National Secretary, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, a former Minister of Interior and ex-Governor of Osun State, known for his administrative acumen and grassroots mobilization skills.
The roster of attendees read like a who's who of Nigerian political elites, many of whom have held high office and wield considerable influence in their respective regions. Former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir el-Rufai was present; el-Rufai, a vocal critic of the current administration and a proponent of economic reforms during his tenure, has been a polarizing figure but remains a strategic asset for any opposition coalition. Senator Aminu Tambuwal, the former Governor of Sokoto State and a one-time Speaker of the House of Representatives, added his legislative expertise and northern appeal to the mix. Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, who served as Governor of Rivers State and later as Minister of Transportation, brought his southern perspective and experience in infrastructure development. Rounding out the list was Alhaji Abdulfatai Ahmed, the former Governor of Kwara State, whose administrative background in finance and governance complements the group's diverse skill set.
These individuals, each with their own political baggage and achievements, represent a cross-section of Nigeria's geopolitical zones—north, south, east, and west—potentially broadening the coalition's appeal. Abdullahi highlighted a key agreement among them: "All the presidential aspirants have agreed to support whoever wins the primary election." This pledge of unity is crucial in a country where ego-driven rivalries have historically undermined opposition efforts. It suggests that the ADC is learning from past mistakes, such as the fragmented opposition in 2015 and 2023, which allowed the APC to consolidate power.
Beyond the resignation directive, the caucus made another significant decision: to sever all ties with the African Democratic Association (ADA), a political movement that had been floated as an alternative platform for the coalition. "The coalition has rested everything concerning the ADA. That means they are not interested in the registration or otherwise of the association," Abdullahi declared. This move comes despite the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recently approving the ADA's registration as a full-fledged political party. The decision to abandon the ADA in favor of the ADC, which was settled upon as the coalition's vehicle back in July, reflects a strategic choice to avoid diluting resources across multiple entities. By concentrating efforts on the ADC, the group aims to build a stronger, more recognizable brand ahead of 2027.
Looking ahead, the ADC's National Working Committee (NWC) is set to release a timetable for primaries in the coming days. This is particularly timely as it prepares for off-cycle governorship elections in Osun and Ekiti States, which will serve as litmus tests for the party's organizational strength and voter appeal. Success in these polls could provide momentum and validate the coalition's strategy.
To fully appreciate the implications of this meeting, it's essential to contextualize it within Nigeria's evolving political history. The country, Africa's most populous nation with over 200 million people, has a vibrant yet tumultuous democratic journey since returning to civilian rule in 1999. The two dominant parties, the PDP (which held power from 1999 to 2015) and the APC (in control since 2015), have shaped much of this era. However, dissatisfaction with governance issues—ranging from economic hardship, insecurity, corruption, to infrastructural deficits—has fueled the rise of alternative platforms.
The ADC itself was founded in 2005 as a progressive party, emphasizing democracy, accountability, and development. Though it has not achieved national dominance, it has fielded candidates in past elections and maintained a presence in some states. Its adoption as the coalition's vehicle marks a resurgence, potentially transforming it into a third force capable of disrupting the status quo.
Peter Obi's role in this narrative is particularly intriguing. Born in 1961 in Onitsha, Anambra State, Obi rose to prominence as Governor of Anambra from 2006 to 2014, where he was lauded for fiscal prudence, education reforms, and infrastructure projects. His 2023 presidential run under the LP banner was a phenomenon, mobilizing the "Obidient" movement—a youth-driven, social media-savvy campaign that challenged traditional politics. Despite finishing third, Obi's 6.1 million votes demonstrated untapped potential. His hesitation to fully leave the LP might stem from loyalty to his base or strategic calculations, but the ADC's directive puts him at a crossroads. If he complies, it could solidify the coalition; if not, it might expose fissures.
Atiku Abubakar, born in 1946 in Adamawa State, is a political colossus with a career spanning business, customs service, and politics. As Vice President from 1999 to 2007 under Olusegun Obasanjo, he played a key role in economic liberalization. His multiple presidential bids (2007, 2019, 2023) have kept him in the spotlight, though defeats have not diminished his ambition. Resigning from the PDP, which he helped found, was a dramatic step, driven perhaps by internal conflicts and a desire for a fresh start. His attendance at the meeting positions him as a frontrunner in the ADC's primaries.
David Mark, the chairman, hails from Benue State and is a retired military officer turned politician. His Senate presidency was marked by stability during turbulent times, including the Boko Haram insurgency. Mark's leadership style—calm, consensus-building—could be instrumental in holding the coalition together.
Rauf Aregbesola, from Osun State, served as Lagos Commissioner for Works before becoming Osun Governor (2010-2018) and Interior Minister (2019-2023). His progressive credentials align with the ADC's ethos, though controversies over policies like school mergers have followed him.
Nasir el-Rufai, born in 1960 in Kaduna, is an economist and former FCT Minister known for urban reforms. As Kaduna Governor (2015-2023), he implemented bold changes in education and health but faced criticism for handling security and labor issues. His inclusion brings intellectual rigor but also potential divisiveness.
Aminu Tambuwal, from Sokoto, transitioned from law to politics, serving as House Speaker (2011-2015) and Governor (2015-2023). His defection from APC to PDP in 2018 highlights his adaptability, a trait valuable in fluid coalitions.
Rotimi Amaechi, a Rivers native, governed from 2007-2015 amid political battles, then as Transport Minister oversaw rail projects. His fallout with former ally Nyesom Wike adds intrigue to his ADC move.
Abdulfatai Ahmed, Kwara Governor (2011-2019), focused on agriculture and youth empowerment, though economic challenges marred his tenure.
This assembly of "bigwigs" reflects a deliberate effort to blend experience, regional balance, and policy expertise. Yet, challenges abound: integrating egos, funding campaigns, and appealing to a disillusioned electorate. Nigeria's 2023 elections saw low turnout (27%), underscoring voter apathy amid economic woes like inflation (over 30%) and naira devaluation.
The coalition's rejection of the ADA, registered by INEC in 2024, avoids fragmentation. INEC, established in 1998, oversees elections and party registrations, ensuring compliance with rules like national spread.
As the NWC prepares primaries for Osun and Ekiti—states with histories of competitive polls—this could preview 2027. Osun, Aregbesola's home, flipped to PDP in 2022; Ekiti remains APC strong.
In broader terms, this development echoes past coalitions like the APC's formation in 2013, merging parties to oust PDP. If successful, the ADC coalition could replicate that, offering alternatives on issues like restructuring, security, and economy.
Critics argue it's another elite reshuffle without ideological depth, but supporters see it as necessary evolution. With 2027 looming, Nigeria watches as these maneuvers unfold, potentially reshaping its democracy.
The meeting's outcomes—resignations, unity pledges, ADA abandonment—set the stage for intense politicking. Obi's absence versus Atiku's presence highlights dynamics: one cautious, the other proactive.
Ultimately, the ADC's gambit tests whether Nigeria's opposition can unite against Tinubu's APC, which despite criticisms, holds institutional advantages. As Abdullahi noted, loyalty must be "total and uncompromising"—words that could define this coalition's fate.
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