By Barth Ikiebe in Abuja.
The coalition opposed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
has adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its political platform and appointed interim officers to lead the party’s transition in a strategic move ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Our correspondent reports that the decision comes just weeks after the coalition reportedly floated a new party, the All Democratic Alliance (ADA). Prominent political figures within the group include former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Minister of Justice Abubakar Malami, and former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi.
Among the key interim appointments in the newly adopted ADC are former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola as interim secretary and former Senate President David Mark as interim chairman.
Several prominent leaders of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have urged members to rally behind the coalition in what they describe as a much-needed political realignment. These leaders include Atiku Abubakar, David Mark, former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido, former Minister of Foreign Affairs Tom Ikimi, former Ambassador to China Aminu Wali, and former PDP National Chairman Uche Secondus.
They argued that both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the PDP have failed to deliver meaningful progress for Nigerians, stressing the need for a new national direction.
The coalition’s momentum gained new ground following a marathon strategy meeting that stretched past midnight, culminating in the formal adoption of ADC as its vehicle for the 2027 elections. This marks a turning point after earlier plans to register ADA as a new party appeared likely to be blocked by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Faced with regulatory hurdles, the group returned to the drawing board and reopened discussions with the ADC leadership. Despite the party’s rumored ties to a former president (name withheld), negotiations reportedly ended on a positive note, leading to the coalition’s adoption of ADC. A formal unveiling is scheduled for 2 p.m. today.
Initially, Rauf Aregbesola was said to have declined the interim secretary role, reportedly on the advice of a close associate. However, after sustained persuasion, he agreed to take on the position and work with the coalition.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
