Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has officially joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), aiming for the 2027 presidential election. On November 24, 2025, he received his ADC membership card in Adamawa State, marking his departure from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Background of Atiku Abubakar
Born on November 25, 1946, in Jada, Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar has a long political career. Importantly, he served as Nigeria’s Vice President from 1999 to 2007 under President Olusegun Obasanjo. In addition, Abubakar has contested the presidency multiple times, including in 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019, and 2023, without success.
ADC’s Open Presidential Ticket
The ADC has decided to keep its presidential ticket open, allowing all members to contest. Furthermore, his decision aims to strengthen internal democracy and prevent divisions ahead of the 2027 elections.
Potential Rift Among ADC Leaders
Key figures within the ADC have expressed reservations about Abubakar’s presidential ambition. Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, a prominent member of the ADC, has advocated for a southern candidate for the 2027 elections. However, El-Rufai’s stance has led to tensions, as Abubakar’s northern candidacy may not align with the party’s regional balance. This divergence has the potential to create a rift among the party’s leadership.
Reactions from Allies and Party Members
Some of Atiku’s long-time allies have expressed concerns about his candidacy. Moreover, in Adamawa, his political base, reactions have been lukewarm. Governor Ahmadu Fintiri has distanced himself from the ADC move, while the Adamawa PDP has refused to follow him into the ADC.
Reactions from Party Members
Some ADC members have voiced concerns about Abubakar’s candidacy. A senior ADC source noted that many original promoters of the party are developing cold feet, which may affect the party’s ability to make an impact in 2027. Furthermore, the source emphasised that Abubakar’s ambition could weaken the party unless he agrees to step aside.
Atiku’s Position
In response to these concerns, Abubakar has stated that he would support any candidate who emerges victorious in the ADC primary, regardless of whether he wins the ticket. He emphasised that the party should not impose any candidate on the people and that the focus should be on a better Nigeria.
Atiku Abubakar’s Ideology
Atiku Abubakar’s entry into the ADC presidential race adds a significant dimension to Nigeria’s political landscape. Nevertheless, his experience and commitment to youth and women’s inclusion will influence the party’s dynamics as the 2027 elections approach.
No Reactions from the Presidency
As of now, the Nigerian presidency has not issued an official statement regarding Atiku Abubakar’s pursuit of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential ticket for the 2027 elections. Thus, insider sources said President Bola Tinubu remains unperturbed. However, reactions from various political figures and parties have been notable.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) and its supporters have been critical of the ADC’s formation. FCT Minister Nyesom Wike criticised the ADC for lacking organisational capacity, while Festus Keyamo described the coalition as a “fractured arrangement” that inadvertently strengthens the APC.
Additionally, the presidency has referred to the ADC as “a hollow arrangement of displaced politicians driven by self-interest”
These comments reflect the ruling party’s scepticism about the ADC’s potential impact on the political landscape. While the presidency has not directly addressed Atiku Abubakar’s candidacy, the APC’s remarks suggest a critical stance toward the ADC’s formation and its objectives
Conclusion
Atiku Abubakar’s pursuit of the ADC presidential ticket for the 2027 elections has introduced potential challenges within the party’s leadership. Additionally, the differing regional preferences and ambitions of key figures may lead to internal conflicts. How the ADC navigates these dynamics will significantly influence its unity and effectiveness in the upcoming elections. Nevertheless, Atiku is battle-ready to dislodge the present government.
