ADC Settles for Consensus as PDP Scouts for Presidential Candidate
Optimism surged yesterday within the ranks of opposition parties as both the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) pledged to mount a spirited challenge against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections. This comes despite the APC's expanding influence, which now covers 31 states across the federation.
Kwankwaso Joins ADC, Sparking Political Realignment
In a significant development, the Kwankwasiyya Movement officially announced that its leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, will join the ADC today. The decision, made public in a press statement, will see Kwankwaso formally register with the coalition party at his residence in Gidan Kwankwasiyya, Miller Road, Kano, at 12:00 p.m. This move has sent ripples through the political landscape, with the Kwankwasiyya Movement urging its members nationwide to immediately join the ADC at local, state, and national levels.
Habibu Sale Mohammed, spokesperson for the Kwankwasiyya Movement, explained the decision in the press release, emphasizing the movement's commitment to advancing democratic values and good governance. This follows last week's meeting where Kwankwaso hosted former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson, and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde at his residence. The gathering, held during Sallah celebrations, was seen as a strategic move to strengthen ties and discuss potential collaboration on the ADC ticket, potentially combining Obi's youth-driven movement with Kwankwaso's strong Northern support base.
ADC's Consensus Approach and APC's Response
Amid the influx of defectors to the ADC, the party faces challenges in selecting its presidential candidate. Over the weekend, the ADC explained its preference for a consensus approach, citing cost-effectiveness. Bolaji Abdullahi, the party's National Publicity Secretary, disclosed this during an appearance on Arise TV's One-on-One program. He noted that while direct primaries and consensus are options, indirect primaries are no longer considered under the amended Electoral Act.
Abdullahi described the APC as a "special purpose vehicle" created to deliver the presidencies of the late Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Tinubu, adding that the party has largely fulfilled that purpose. He alleged that the ruling party is showing signs of anxiety ahead of future elections, questioning why a party with 31 governors and about 90% of the National Assembly is still panicking and trying to destabilize opposition parties.
Former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad commented on Kwankwaso's defection from the NNPP to the ADC, suggesting it could impact APC's prospects in Kano State, though he noted the situation remains manageable if the party stays united.
PDP's National Convention and Internal Dynamics
Meanwhile, over 2,000 delegates from across Nigeria participated in the PDP National Convention in Abuja, organized by the Abdulrahman Mohammed-led caretaker committee. FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, describing it as the real convention observed by INEC, assured delegates that the PDP will be on the ballot in 2027 despite crises and defections. He thanked party members for their resilience and urged aggrieved members to return to help renew the party.
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki stated that the successful convention reaffirmed the PDP's eligibility for the 2027 elections, while founding father Sule Lamido called for inclusivity and unity. However, former Deputy National Chairman Olabode George accused the APC of attempting to weaken the opposition through Wike, alleging that recent crises are influenced by ruling establishment forces to prevent credible opposition participation.
Calls for Opposition Unity and Electoral Concerns
Presidential aspirant Gbenga Hashim intensified cross-party consultations to forge a broad-based coalition against what he described as a drift toward a one-party state. He hosted leaders of the Accord Party, stressing the urgency of opposition unity to preserve democratic pluralism. Hashim also criticized INEC for imposing an unconstitutional electoral timetable, arguing it shortens timelines and pressures opposition parties.
The Village Boys Movement (VBM) stepped up calls for the ADC to hand its presidential ticket to Peter Obi, staging a "2 Million Man March and ADC Registration Drive" across multiple states. Organizers said the turnout highlighted growing grassroots momentum for political change. Former Ekiti State governor Ayodele Fayose warned that the ADC will lose the 2027 elections if Obi is not on the ticket, though he expressed doubt about Obi's presidential prospects.
As the 2027 elections approach, opposition parties are navigating internal strategies, realignments, and external pressures, setting the stage for a contentious political battle.
