Atiku’s ADC Move Triggers Political Backlash Ahead Of 2027

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s registration as a member of the African Democratic Congress on Monday has sparked a fresh wave of criticism and internal party controversy, setting off a storm in the build-up to the 2027 election.

Adams Oshiomhole and APC Deputy National Organising Secretary Nze Duru dismissed Atiku’s move, describing him as a politician who moves from party to party whenever he fails to secure a presidential ticket. Speaking on a live TV programme, Oshiomhole said Atiku’s political history shows a pattern of defecting instead of fixing the parties he joins. He questioned Atiku’s ability to lead the country, saying he had “contested every election and keeps losing.”

Duru told Reporters that the political environment remains unpredictable, insisting the APC will not underrate any challenger despite the rise of new opposition alignments.

Atiku’s switch to the ADC comes months after he resigned from the PDP in July, citing unresolved disagreements. His registration drew a large turnout in Adamawa, with Atiku declaring that “the real opposition has begun.” His move aligns with a broader coalition involving Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Nasir el-Rufai, Babachir Lawal and others who previously agreed to adopt the ADC as a joint platform to challenge the APC.

But the ADC’s internal crisis took centre stage shortly after the ceremony. The Nafiu Bala-led faction rejected Atiku’s registration, calling it “illegitimate.” The group said the process was conducted by individuals not recognised by the party’s national leadership. It warned that Atiku must follow proper procedures before being accepted as a full member.

The party is currently grappling with a leadership dispute that is before the Federal High Court, a case the Bala faction says must be resolved before new coalition members are integrated.

Meanwhile, Atiku’s ally Babachir Lawal stayed away from the ceremony. Speaking from Abuja, he said the event was poorly organised and that Atiku shifted the date after he had already travelled to Yola. He warned the former vice president that such scheduling changes could create unnecessary political interpretations.

Atiku’s registration was overseen by Senator Sadiq Yar’Adua and the ADC’s Adamawa chairman, Shehu Yohanna, who said the exercise marks the start of statewide membership mobilisation ahead of 2027.

Notable politicians present included former Governor Bindow Jibrilla, Senator Aishatu Binani, Senator Abdulaziz Nyako and Senator Ishaku Abbo.