Barely a day after the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition was unveiled, the initial excitement surrounding unity has quickly given way to internal jockeying for power. The coalition’s primary mission is to present a credible opposition platform aimed at challenging President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
Introduced as a strong alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the ADC coalition brings together notable political figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, and ex-Senate President David Mark.
What started as a collaborative effort by politicians from varied ideological backgrounds is now exposing signs of competition within the ranks. Different camps aligned with leading aspirants are beginning to push their own narratives, revealing cracks in the façade of unity.
Amaechi declares presidential ambition
Rotimi Amaechi, former Minister of Transportation and Governor of Rivers State, has publicly announced his bid to run for president in 2027 under the ADC banner. Speaking on Channels TV’s ‘Politics Today,’ Amaechi confirmed his commitment to a single term if elected. He cited the worsening economic and security situation as justification for replacing the current administration.
When asked about serving only one term, Amaechi affirmed his stance, emphasizing that the South should retain the presidency to complete its tenure. His declaration effectively signals the start of an intra-coalition contest, with aspirants beginning to promote their own political agendas despite the rhetoric of unity.
Push for Obi’s leadership
Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, Peter Obi’s running mate in the 2023 elections, publicly endorsed Obi as the coalition’s presidential candidate. Datti highlighted Obi’s strong appeal among young voters and his performance in the previous election, despite its contested outcome, as reasons why he is the best candidate to rally public support for the ADC.
Datti insisted that Obi should not settle for the vice-presidential slot in 2027, given the millions of votes he secured last time. Although Obi remains officially with the Labour Party, his active involvement in the ADC coalition fuels speculation about a possible shift to ADC or withdrawal if the nomination process does not favor him.
While Obi has acknowledged Atiku as a political elder, his supporters argue that Obi enjoys broader acceptance within the coalition, particularly amid calls for a southern presidency.
Atiku’s quiet strategy
Though Atiku Abubakar has not declared his candidacy, political watchers believe he is positioning himself for what may be his final presidential run. The 2027 elections would mark his seventh attempt at the nation’s highest office.
With the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) weakened by internal conflicts, Atiku is credited with orchestrating the formation of the ADC as a means to strengthen opposition unity. However, some analysts suggest his motives are more self-serving.
Despite growing demands for a southern candidate, Atiku’s supporters rely on the North’s significant voting bloc and its historic influence in national elections. His proven skill in winning party primaries remains a critical factor as the ADC moves toward its own selection process.
Mobilization by Obi and Atiku camps
Neither Obi nor Atiku has officially declared a presidential bid, but their loyalists are already mobilizing support within the ADC. Youth groups are rallying behind Obi, while influential PDP figures in northern Nigeria are aligning with Atiku.
There is speculation about a possible joint ticket, with Obi potentially serving as Atiku’s running mate. However, Datti’s firm stance and the determination of Obi’s supporters suggest any offer less than the presidential nomination would be firmly rejected.
Rising internal tensions
Despite the coalition’s initial fanfare, internal frictions are emerging. Former ADC presidential aspirant Dumebi Kachikwu voiced concerns about potential manipulation of the candidate selection process in favor of Atiku or another frontrunner.
Kachikwu warned of an elite plan unfolding behind the scenes and called for vigilance among members. In contrast, opposition figure Dele Momodu downplayed such worries, asserting that coalition leaders have pledged to maintain unity and resolve disputes through consensus.
APC and presidency respond
The ruling APC and its allies have dismissed the ADC as ineffectual. FCT Minister Nyesom Wike criticized the coalition’s organizational capacity, while Festus Keyamo described it as a fragmented alliance that inadvertently benefits the APC.
The presidency also released a statement branding the coalition as “a hollow arrangement of displaced politicians driven by self-interest,” underscoring skepticism about the ADC’s viability.
Looking ahead to 2027
With Amaechi’s formal declaration, Datti’s endorsement of Obi, and Atiku’s strategic positioning, the ADC faces a complex internal landscape. How the coalition navigates competing ambitions and manages its primary elections will be critical in determining whether it can mount a serious challenge to the ruling party or disintegrate before the campaign gains momentum. This article was originally published by Vanguard News and has been adapted for further clarity.
