Uncertainty Over Atiku And Obi’s Membership Stalls ADC Coalition Momentum

Efforts by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to unite opposition forces ahead of the 2027 elections are facing fresh hurdles as confusion grows over the membership status of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party leader Peter Obi.

Both men have publicly aligned with the ADC-led coalition, which aims to present a single platform against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). However, neither has formally registered as a card-carrying member of the party — a requirement for contesting elections under its banner.

Atiku, who recently resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is said to be in the process of formalising his registration with the ADC. His spokesman, Paul Ibe, confirmed that the former vice president’s membership procedures are “ongoing,” insisting that Atiku remains committed to strengthening the ADC as a viable opposition platform.

Obi, on his part, continues to attend ADC coalition meetings but still identifies as a member of the Labour Party (LP). His ally and Obidient Movement coordinator, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, said Obi would decide on his political platform by the end of 2025, adding that he remains in the LP for now.

The uncertainty over the formal status of both politicians has sparked unease among ADC leaders and coalition partners. Party insiders fear that without clear commitments from Atiku and Obi, the coalition could struggle to finalise its structure and field a unified presidential candidate in 2027.

Former Senate President David Mark, who chairs the party’s interim leadership, has reportedly urged both men to complete their membership registration, warning that the ADC cannot afford internal indecision.

Compounding the tension is a leadership tussle within the ADC. Former presidential candidate Dumebi Kachikwu and other party members have accused the coalition of attempting to hijack the party without due consultation. Despite the installation of an interim team led by Mark and Rauf Aregbesola, factional disagreements persist.

The instability has also fuelled speculation that Atiku and some allies — including former Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai — are exploring alternative platforms. Reports suggest that El-Rufai, Atiku, and Rotimi Amaechi have applied to register a new political group, the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), as a backup plan. Ibe, however, dismissed the claim as false.

For Obi, the ADC’s internal conflicts and Atiku’s dominance in the coalition reportedly make him cautious about committing. His supporters argue that he is waiting to see if the ADC can prove itself as a stable and credible national platform before leaving the Labour Party.

With both men keeping their options open, the ADC’s ambition to serve as a unified opposition force remains uncertain. Observers believe their eventual decisions will shape the opposition’s strength — and the political direction of the 2027 elections.