What was meant to be a show of unity by Nigeria’s leading opposition figures has quickly turned into a source of tension and controversy.
During a high-profile event in Abuja, key political players including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, unveiled a new coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) platform.
The development that spark unexpected backlash from within the party and drawing sharp reactions across the country.
While many hoped this alliance would present a strong challenge to the ruling APC ahead of 2027, the unveiling has raised serious questions about internal party democracy, transparency, and long-term stability.
Here are five surprising facts that reveal the depth of the crisis surrounding the Abuja ADC coalition launch.
- Coalition Platform: ADC Chosen, Not a New Party
Instead of launching a fresh party, top opposition figures including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and David Mark, opted to repurpose the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as their platform in the 2027 run. This strategic move repurposes an existing structure but has sparked friction among original members. - Furious Backlash from State Chairmen
Several state ADC chairmen loudly rejected the takeover, arguing the proper party procedures weren’t followed. One lamented: “They cannot come to a party they did not register to join and take it over from those who built it.” Their refusal highlights internal resistance to the coalition’s top-down approach. - Presidency Warns It Could Collapse Soon
The Buhari-era presidency swiftly dismissed the move, calling the coalition a “coalition of convenience” bound to fail. They predicted it would collapse within six months, alleging it was driven more by personal interests than national agenda.
- Claim: ADC Now the Opposition’s Main Voice
Interim ADC chairman David Mark and his team say this alliance echoes the 2015 unity that ousted the PDP, positioning ADC as the main opposition to Tinubu’s APC. However, criticisms of ideological clarity and messaging persist. - Democracy Experts Offer Caution
Former maritime DG Dakuku Peterside praised the move as positive for democracy, but warned the coalition must go beyond optics. He stressed it needs clear leadership, solid messaging, and resolution of internal tensions before 2027.
The ADC unveiling marks a bold gambit by opposition heavyweights to revive an existing party as a united front for 2027.
But friction over internal processes, mixed signals from state actors, and doubts from critics reveal a coalition still finding its footing.
Success will depend on whether it can transform loose alignment into a coherent, principled platform and withstand the test of time
