Atiku's ADC Move Sparks Internal Party Conflict
In a dramatic development for Nigeria's political landscape, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar's attempt to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has been met with strong resistance from a significant faction within the party. The controversy emerged just hours after Atiku publicly announced his membership on Monday, November 24, 2025.
The ex-Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain formally registered at Jada Ward 1 in Jada local government area of Adamawa state, sharing photographic evidence of his new membership card on X (formerly Twitter) with the caption: "It's official." This move was seen as part of a broader coalition strategy by opposition politicians to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 general elections.
ADC Faction Declares Atiku's Registration Invalid
The Nafiu Bala-led faction of the ADC quickly responded by disowning Atiku's registration, insisting that the exercise was conducted improperly. In a strongly-worded statement signed by the party's director of media and public affairs, Christopher Okechukwu, the faction declared the registration "illegitimate" and in violation of the ADC's internal procedures.
"This registration was conducted through individuals who are not recognised by the ADC's National Headquarters and therefore lack the authority to register new members," Okechukwu stated. The faction emphasized that Atiku must complete his registration with the duly constituted party executives in his locality, a step they claim he has yet to take.
Underlying Leadership Crisis Complicates Matters
The dispute occurs against the backdrop of an ongoing leadership crisis within the ADC. The party currently faces a legal challenge before the federal high court questioning the legitimacy of David Mark's national leadership. This court case, according to party officials, must be resolved before the ADC can properly integrate new coalition partners.
The Bala faction expressed concerns that Atiku's move might represent a "broader strategy to leverage the ADC while awaiting reconciliation with the PDP," noting that similar patterns had been observed in the past. Despite their rejection of his current registration status, the faction assured Atiku of full membership rights once he follows the proper registration channels.
Okechukwu reiterated that the ADC "is not a vehicle for personal ambition but a movement committed to democratic renewal," signaling the party's determination to maintain its ideological integrity amid the high-profile defection.
This development represents a significant setback for opposition unity efforts ahead of the 2027 elections and highlights the challenges facing political realignment in Nigeria's evolving democratic landscape.
