A major crisis is brewing in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a key faction of the party has openly rejected the adoption of the ADC by the opposition coalition led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. The party’s factional national publicity secretary, Musa Isa Matara, issued a strong statement accusing opposition politicians of trying to hijack the party for their own interests.
Coalition Takeover Sparks Controversy
The controversy erupted after opposition leaders announced that the ADC would serve as their political platform for the 2027 elections. The coalition, which includes former Senate President David Mark and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, recently named both men as the party’s interim national chairman and national secretary, respectively. The coalition also appointed Bolaji Abdullahi, a former minister of sports, as its spokesperson.
However, the ADC faction insists that the decision to merge with the coalition was made without the involvement of the party’s state executives, youth and women leaders, or ward coordinators. In their view, this move is an imposition and undermines the party’s democratic principles.
“The ADC is not for sale. It belongs to its members, not political merchants or elite dealmakers,” the statement from the faction read. “We warn those coming into the ADC as part of this imposed arrangement to tread carefully. Be mindful that some few individuals are attempting to sell out the soul of our party for personal gain.”
Legitimacy and Legal Concerns
According to Musa Isa Matara, the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) did not approve or ratify the recent appointments made by the coalition. The statement further described the coalition’s move as a “hijack and imposition,” warning that the ADC is not a “private coalition platform.”
The faction also pointed out that the claim that the ADC has become the “platform of the National Opposition Coalition Group” is misleading. They argue that millions of ADC members were not informed or involved in the coalition talks and that any attempt to force an opposition merger without grassroots support is a violation of democratic values and party sovereignty.
The statement continued, “Our millions of members have not been informed or carried along in this so-called coalition. If anyone is attempting to force an opposition merger without grassroots consent, they are trampling on democratic ethics and party sovereignty.”
Warnings Over Legal Battles
The group also warned those joining the party under the coalition arrangement to be aware that the ADC has been facing unresolved legal crises since the 2023 general elections. They stressed that these legal matters remain in court and unresolved, making any coalition attempt on such shaky legal ground “irresponsible and potentially self-destructive.”
Background: The Abuja Meeting
The crisis comes after a high-profile meeting in Abuja, attended by Atiku Abubakar, David Mark, Sule Lamido, Uche Secondus, Babangida Aliyu, Sam Egwu, Aminu Tambuwal, Liyel Imoke, and other top politicians. The meeting was called to unite opposition forces ahead of the 2027 elections and to present a strong challenge to the ruling party.
Despite the coalition’s announcement, the ADC faction insists that the party remains independent and that any realignment must be based on grassroots participation and respect for legal processes. They called on party members to remain vigilant and to reject any arrangement that does not have their full support.
Implications for 2027 and Beyond
The unfolding crisis highlights the deep divisions within the ADC and the challenges facing opposition parties in Nigeria as they try to unite ahead of the next general elections. With unresolved legal battles and internal disagreements, the future of the ADC as a coalition platform remains uncertain.
As the 2027 elections approach, the ADC’s internal crisis could have major implications for opposition unity and the broader political landscape in Nigeria. The party’s leadership and members will need to find a way to resolve their differences if they are to play a meaningful role in the country’s future.
Conclusion
The rejection of the coalition takeover by a key ADC faction has exposed significant cracks within the party and cast doubt on the opposition’s ability to unite ahead of the 2027 elections. As legal battles continue and grassroots members demand a voice, the future of the ADC—and the wider opposition coalition—remains uncertain.
Only through dialogue, respect for party structures, and genuine member involvement can the ADC hope to overcome this crisis and play a strong role in Nigeria’s political future.
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