The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has proposed a strategic “collegiate system” of governance aimed at maintaining unity among opposition heavyweights ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
The move is designed to curb the “winner-takes-all” mentality that often leads to internal friction following party primaries. Speaking on Arise TV’s *The Morning Show* on Monday, ADC reform promoter Lukman Salihu explained that the framework seeks to transition away from “emperor-style” leadership toward a model of collective decision-making.
“The new framework we are developing is a collegiate one. It is not a system where one person wins everything,” Salihu stated. “Our leaders are committed to ensuring that the next government does not consist of an individual presiding over an empire, but a team where decisions are taken jointly.”
The proposal comes amid high-stakes jockeying within the opposition, as supporters of Peter Obi, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Atiku Abubakar, and Rotimi Amaechi debate who should lead a potential coalition. Salihu dismissed concerns over these rivalries, describing them as healthy political contestation rather than a sign of division.
The ADC also confirmed that its policy roadmap and manifesto, focused on “citizen-centered governance,” was adopted at its last convention. Salihu took a swipe at the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), arguing that the party has lost its internal discipline, with elected officials now dictating terms to the party rather than vice versa.
The ADC chieftain expressed confidence that the collegiate model would keep high-profile aspirants like Rotimi Amaechi invested in the process, even if they do not emerge as the lead candidate.
