In a significant development ahead of the 2027 general elections, the coalition opposing President Bola Tinubu is poised to adopt the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its official political platform. According to multiple credible sources, former Senate President David Mark has accepted the role of Interim National Chairman of the ADC. This move signals a consolidation of opposition forces aiming to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Okay.ng reports that the decision was reached after extensive consultations among key opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, and former governors Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna and Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State. The coalition has been navigating internal challenges, particularly in selecting a National Secretary, after offers were declined by former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola and Senator Ben Obi.
The coalition leaders are expected to meet in Abuja soon to finalize outstanding issues and officially unveil the ADC as their united platform. The move comes amid growing dissatisfaction with President Tinubu’s administration, which has faced criticism for its handling of various sectors despite some achievements.
Since March 20, when the coalition was first announced, political observers have speculated about which platform the group would adopt. The Social Democratic Party (SDP) was reportedly rejected due to the influence of Tinubu loyalists within its ranks.
An insider revealed, “ADC is our party, and that has been settled. David Mark will serve as Interim National Chairman. We are still working on the National Secretary position, but we expect to resolve it soon. Labour Party’s Peter Obi wanted to consult his supporters before the official announcement, which we anticipate will happen this week.”
The coalition’s strategy involves members leaving their current parties to join the ADC, with loyalists already integrating into the party structure. Ralph Nwosu, the current ADC National Chairman, expressed his readiness to step down for Mark, praising him as a disciplined and suitable leader.
Nwosu stated, “There is no better detribalised Nigerian to lead ADC than former Senate President David Mark. This is beyond politics and power grabbing; it is about Nigeria’s future.”
The coalition includes leaders from the PDP, Labour Party, and other opposition groups, many of whom have already begun contesting elections under the ADC banner in various states. A key Atiku loyalist confirmed that negotiations are at an advanced stage, with a formal announcement expected soon.
Despite these developments, the APC remains confident. APC Publicity Director Bala Ibrahim dismissed the coalition’s efforts as “dead on arrival,” asserting that the ruling party will maintain its dominance in 2027.
“The ADC is not a platform that can fly,” Ibrahim said. “We are delivering dividends of democracy, and the people will vote for us again.”
As the coalition prepares to make its official declaration, the political landscape in Nigeria appears set for a fierce contest in 2027.
