By Muhammad Mamman
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is mired in uncertainty as the 2027 general election looms, with high-profile figures Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi yet to commit to the party, stalling its momentum.
Insiders reveal that the ADC is struggling to gain ground, hampered by the reluctance of former Vice-President Atiku, ex-Anambra Governor Obi, and other political heavyweights to formally join. The Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) delay in recognising David Mark as interim national chairman, alongside legal wrangles and financial woes, has further stymied the party’s progress, according to sources who preferred anonymity.
ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi brushed off claims of disarray, asserting that the coalition remains steadfastly on course.
On 20 March, a coalition of prominent opposition leaders launched a bold movement in Abuja to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027, sparking fervent debate about a united front. After weeks of talks, Atiku, Obi, former Kaduna Governor Nasir el-Rufai, ex-Rivers Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and others adopted the ADC as their platform on 1 July. David Mark was appointed interim national chairman, with Rauf Aregbesola as national secretary.
Despite these public endorsements, the ADC’s ranks remain sparse. Atiku, who parted ways with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over a month ago, has yet to register with the ADC or any other party. Similarly, Obi remains unaffiliated as his Labour Party grapples with intensifying internal strife.
A senior ADC member, speaking to Punch, voiced mounting concerns: “Party members, particularly the National Working Committee, are deeply troubled that Atiku, Obi, and many expected political allies have not joined. This is sapping the momentum we need for 2027.”
Another coalition leader pointed to INEC’s delay in recognising Mark’s leadership and ongoing legal battles as significant obstacles. “The ADC remains a strong contender to challenge President Tinubu in 2027,” the source insisted. “Our current challenges stem from INEC’s failure to fully endorse David Mark’s leadership, which is hindering our progress.”
