ADC Denies Alliance Talks with PRP Ahead of 2027 Elections, Focuses on Legal Battle
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has categorically rejected claims that it is considering an alliance with the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) in preparation for the 2027 general elections. Speculation about a potential merger had intensified following recent developments involving the party's leadership crisis and regulatory actions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
ADC Spokesperson Dismisses Reports as Inaccurate
The party's National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, described the reports as inaccurate, stating that no such negotiations were taking place. He said, "Our attention has been drawn to a story in circulation that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is in talks with another political party, specifically the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), in anticipation of its court judgment. We would like to state categorically that this is not true."
Abdullahi explained that the party's priority is to contest what it described as an unlawful action taken against its leadership by INEC. He added, "The coalition leadership is not having any such conversation with any political party at the moment. We are fully committed to ensuring that the illegal action taken against our leadership by INEC and other agents of the ruling party is upturned."
Party Rules Out Abandoning Its Platform
While reaffirming openness to broader opposition collaboration, the party insisted it had no intention of leaving its platform. Abdullahi stated, "Any suggestion that we are considering abandoning the ADC is preemptive and speculative, and should be ignored." He emphasized that resolving the dispute is essential for protecting democratic principles and maintaining the integrity of Nigeria's multiparty system.
Confidence Expressed in Judicial Process
The ADC also expressed confidence in the judicial process, urging courts to uphold democratic values despite mounting political pressure. Abdullahi said, "Notwithstanding the flagrant bastardisation of democratic institutions, the ADC leadership remains confident that the judicial institutions will, at this defining moment, resist the pressure to be complicit in undermining Nigeria's democracy."
Leadership Crisis Fuels Speculation
The party has faced internal challenges since July 2025, when an opposition coalition adopted it as a platform for the 2027 presidential race. A leadership dispute between factions led by former Senate President David Mark and Nafiu Bala has further complicated the situation. On April 1, INEC announced it would suspend engagement with both factions, citing a court of appeal ruling directing parties to maintain the status quo.
Opposition Figures Protest INEC Decision
In response, key opposition figures staged a protest at the INEC headquarters in Abuja on April 8, accusing the electoral body of bias. Among those present were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, David Mark, and former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi. Other political figures, including Peter Obi, Rauf Aregbesola, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Dino Melaye, also joined the demonstration, highlighting the growing tensions within the opposition bloc ahead of 2027.
The ADC's denial of alliance talks underscores its current focus on legal challenges and internal stability, rather than external political mergers, as it navigates the complex landscape leading up to the 2027 elections.
