Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is expected to formally register as a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) today (Monday), a move that could reshape Nigeria’s opposition politics ahead of the 2027 elections.
Atiku confirmed his intention to join the ADC during a weekend address to supporters and stakeholders in Adamawa State. His aide, Abdul Rasheeth, revealed this on Sunday.
“Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is set to officially join the ADC tomorrow, a development that may significantly alter Nigeria’s political scene,” Rasheeth posted on his X account.
Atiku’s registration is seen as a critical step in the ongoing realignment of opposition forces in Nigeria.
Though Atiku had earlier led the adoption of the ADC as a coalition platform for opposition candidates challenging President Bola Tinubu in 2027, he and other key figures like Peter Obi and Babachir Lawal have delayed formal registration with the party.
Last week, Adamawa State ADC Chairman Shehu Yohanna called on Atiku, Babachir Lawal, and other prominent figures to complete their membership registration.
Speaking exclusively to The PUNCH, Yohanna disclosed that Atiku would be in Yola, Adamawa’s capital, for his birthday and local engagements in Jada Local Government Area this week.
“I spoke with Atiku after he arrived in Nigeria, and he said he will be in Yola for his birthday celebration and community outreach in Jada. I believe he will use this visit to officially register and collect his membership card. Other intended members like the former SGF will likely do the same,” Yohanna said.
This announcement follows speculation surrounding the absence of Atiku and Obi at the ADC’s unveiling of its new national secretariat in Abuja on November 17.
ADC leadership dismissed rumours that Obi avoided the event due to the secretariat building’s past use as Atiku’s campaign office.
The event was attended by ADC National Chairman David Mark, National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola, and former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, but Atiku and Obi were absent without a formal explanation.
Mark described the new office as a symbol of the coalition’s determination to reshape Nigeria’s political future.
“It stands as a physical testament to our united commitment to build a better nation. The ADC coalition is a historic necessity, driven by the people’s desire for good governance, accountability, and a stronger democracy,” he said.
ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi refuted claims of internal discord, assuring that neither Obi nor Atiku have withdrawn support from the coalition.
“The programme was spontaneous; many leaders were not present. Obi was out of the country, and Atiku was unavailable. There’s no indication Obi is leaving the coalition; he remains fully committed,” he said.
Abdullahi clarified the secretariat building’s ownership, stressing it was leased by the ADC after Atiku’s tenancy ended.
“There’s no ownership or donation of the building by Atiku. The lease expired, and the ADC is renting the space,” he added.
Despite Atiku’s impending membership, Obi remains silent, with allies saying he is carefully considering his options.
Obi’s former campaign spokesman, Dr Yunusa Tanko, dismissed rumours of Obi’s exit from the coalition.
“No, Obi is not abandoning the ADC coalition. Such speculation is unfounded. He will make a statement in due course as he carefully evaluates his next move, especially with growing interest in his leadership,” Tanko said.
Tanko noted Obi’s caution in choosing where to seek the 2027 presidential ticket.
“He wants to avoid feeling trapped and is therefore weighing his options carefully. Since it’s expected to be a southern candidate’s turn, we hope the ADC will offer him the ticket,” he said.
He added that Obi’s timeline remains unchanged.
“Obi has said he will reveal his intentions after the Anambra election, and we expect him to do so at the right time without pressure,” Tanko concluded.
