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| Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar |
Firstsitenews-In a bold move to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s reelection bid, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, ex-Senate President David Mark, and other prominent opposition leaders have formally adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as their political platform for the 2027 elections.
The coalition’s unveiling took place on Wednesday at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, where David Mark and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola were introduced as interim National Chairman and Secretary of the ADC, respectively.
However, the move has stirred internal friction, as ADC’s 2023 presidential flagbearer Dumebi Kachikwu and members of the party’s old guard accused the coalition leaders of hijacking the party, questioning their capacity to lead a viable opposition.
Reacting to the development, Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum, cautioned party members against defection under the guise of coalition-building, warning of disciplinary consequences.
Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) dismissed the opposition alliance as a gathering of "retired politicians" clinging to relevance, insisting President Tinubu would secure a landslide victory in 2027.
Against the backdrop of worsening economic conditions and public discontent over Tinubu’s reforms, the opposition coalition hopes to capitalise on the growing frustration among Nigerians. The push for a united front began with a coalition announcement on March 20, followed by confirmation in May that the ADC would serve as the official platform.
In his address, David Mark admitted the road to 2027 would be arduous but necessary:
“This coalition is not merely about winning political power; it is a determined effort to salvage Nigeria’s democracy. We are united in our belief that no price is too high to serve our fatherland.”
He accused the APC-led government of centralising power, weakening democratic institutions, and stifling the opposition.
“We’ve never seen such insecurity, hunger, and neglect in governance. The National Assembly has been reduced to a rubber stamp. This coalition is our response to preserve democratic choice and stop the drift into a one-party state.”
Mark declared the coalition’s mission is to provide Nigerians with an alternative pathway to peace, progress, and prosperity.
“This alliance belongs to all Nigerians. While some members may remain in their legacy parties for now due to bye-elections and state elections, we stand united under the ADC banner ahead of 2027 and beyond.”
Backing this sentiment, ADC’s founding National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu, confirmed that he and other founding members had voluntarily stepped down for Mark and Aregbesola to lead the realignment.
“We resigned because we believe in this mission. It’s not about politics; it’s about Nigeria’s future. Mark and Aregbesola represent a fresh beginning.”
Former Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi also made headlines by announcing his resignation from the APC the night before the unveiling, lamenting the state of the nation.
“This isn’t just about changing government—it’s about saving Nigeria. People can’t afford food. Inflation is out of control, and the ruling party is more focused on rigging elections than governance.”
Notable attendees at the unveiling included Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rauf Aregbesola, former APC Chairman John Odigie-Oyegun, LP Vice Presidential candidate Datti Baba-Ahmed, and former IGP Mohammed Abubakar.
Also present were former Governors Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, Liyel Imoke, Gabriel Suswam, Aminu Tambuwal, Abdulfattah Ahmed, Oserheimen Osunbor, Emeka Ihedioha, Celestine Omehia, and Capt. Idris Wada.
Other key figures included former AGF Abubakar Malami, ex-SGF Babachir Lawal, Senators Dino Melaye,
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