A new political alliance led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its platform to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.
The decision came after a long meeting that ended early Wednesday morning. The opposition coalition had planned to use a new party, the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), but delays by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) forced them to go with the ADC for now.
To lead the new movement, the coalition appointed key political figures. Former Senate President David Mark will serve as National Chairperson. Former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, once a strong ally of Tinubu, has been named National Secretary. Former Minister of Youth and Sports Bolaji Abdullahi will act as Spokesperson.
“This is a strong team with a clear focus. The ADC is now our platform to reach Nigerians and prepare for 2027,” said coalition leader Dr Umar Ardo.
He explained that “while the coalition is still working to register the ADA — with INEC confirming the application was received on June 27, 2025 — the ADC will be used for now to build momentum across the country.”
The coalition brings together major political names from across Nigeria, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, Bukola Saraki, Rotimi Amaechi, and Abubakar Malami. This diverse group hopes to unite Nigeria’s opposition under one umbrella.
Political observers say “this move could reshape Nigeria’s political map. The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) itself was formed in 2013 through a merger of opposition parties and went on to defeat the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in 2015.”
“This new coalition has the potential to do what APC did in 2015. We are bringing together experienced leaders from different backgrounds to offer Nigerians a real alternative,” Ardor said.