A fresh wave of political realignment is sweeping through northern Nigeria as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) makes significant inroads by integrating former PDP structures in states such as Yobe, Gombe, and Adamawa. This strategic move is part of the ADC’s broader effort to establish itself as a formidable force ahead of the 2027 elections.
Paul Ibe, media aide to Atiku Abubakar, confirmed the shift, noting, “The Yobe PDP executive has aligned with the ADC. The Adamawa executives have also pledged their loyalty. The movement is gaining momentum.” He likened the coalition-building process to the challenges faced by newlyweds, emphasizing the need for patience and compromise.
Despite these developments, PDP’s leadership remains adamant about its unity and strength. Austin Nwachukwu, PDP State Chairmen Forum leader, dismissed the defections as inconsequential and labeled the reports as “fake news designed to attract public sympathy.”
The ADC, positioning itself as the primary challenger to the APC, has extended invitations to members of other opposition parties, including the SDP, Labour Party, and NNPP. Bolaji Abdullahi, ADC’s interim spokesperson, stressed, “Our focus is on the precarious state of the nation. This is not about ambitions, it’s about the collective good of the country.”
Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has denied any plans to defect, calling the rumors “a classic example of cheap, politically motivated speculation designed solely to distract us.”
Peter Obi, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, reiterated his commitment to coalition politics, stating, “We have all agreed to work in coalition for the 2027 elections. For that, we have adopted the ADC, but as we grow, other parties and individuals will still come on board.”
APC’s Dr. Ajibola Basiru criticized the opposition’s coalition, describing it as a “deliberate attempt to deceive the people,” and argued that the APC continues to expand its influence, particularly in the South-South.
The ADC has also accused the federal government of prioritizing political optics over genuine reforms, especially concerning food security and economic recovery. Bolaji Abdullahi stated, “It wasn’t the hunger of hundreds of millions of Nigerians that moved them, it was fear, fear of the 2027 elections, fear that Nigerians have woken up.”
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike added to the political discourse by criticizing Rauf Aregbesola’s tenure as Interior Minister, highlighting inefficiencies in passport processing during his administration.