The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has embarked on a sweeping campaign to consolidate its influence in the northern region, targeting key figures from both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) as Nigeria looks ahead to the 2027 general elections.
In a significant development, ADC has successfully absorbed PDP structures in Yobe, Gombe, Adamawa, and other states, though many high-profile politicians are yet to make formal moves. Okay.ng reports that this realignment is seen as a response to growing concerns over the dominance of a single party system and the need for a robust opposition.
Paul Ibe, spokesperson for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, confirmed the momentum, stating, “The movement is gaining traction. Atiku Abubakar will continue to provide direction to ensure the coalition evolves into a formidable, robust, and viable platform.” He highlighted the alignment of PDP executives in Yobe, Gombe, and Adamawa with the ADC, describing Atiku’s leadership as pivotal in uniting diverse political interests. “Just last week, the political landscape was trending towards a one-party dictatorship, reminiscent of the Abacha era. This coalition is a response to that threat,” Ibe remarked.
Despite these shifts, PDP leadership remains defiant. Austin Nwachukwu, chair of the PDP State Chairmen Forum and Imo State PDP Chairman, dismissed the reports as “good riddance,” asserting, “The chairmen of Yobe and Borno vehemently denied these claims. These are fake news designed to attract public sympathy.”
Meanwhile, ADC’s interim spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi emphasized the coalition’s broad appeal, stating, “The ADC represents a coalition of Nigerians who stand against the failures of this administration. In the coming months, you’ll see not only PDP members but also those from other opposition parties… joining us.”
Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State categorically refuted rumors of his defection, calling them “entirely false and exists only in the imagination of its sponsors.” He reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to the APC and urged the public to disregard such speculation.
Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, clarified his position, saying, “Today, I remain in the Labour Party, but we have all agreed to work in coalition for the 2027 elections. For that, we have adopted the ADC, but as we grow, other parties and individuals will still come on board.”
The APC, however, through its National Secretary Dr. Ajibola Basiru, labeled the coalition efforts as a “deliberate attempt to deceive the people or create a grandiose platform where none exists,” insisting that the opposition’s actions are a sign of confusion.
The ADC also criticized the federal government’s recent reform announcements, accusing it of prioritizing optics over real solutions to Nigeria’s economic challenges. Bolaji Abdullahi argued, “It took the emergence of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, and the growing momentum of a united opposition to push this government into action.”
In another development, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike took aim at ADC’s interim secretary Rauf Aregbesola, criticizing his tenure as Interior Minister and contrasting it with the current administration’s achievements.
