The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has completed the screening of all three presidential aspirants for the 2027 general elections, affirming that each candidate underwent the established procedures without any preferential treatment. Meanwhile, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has screened and cleared Peter Obi to contest under its banner in the upcoming elections.
ADC Screening Process
Chairman of the ADC screening panel and former Governor of Cross River State, Senator Liyel Imoke, informed journalists that the committee's report will be forwarded to the party's National Working Committee (NWC) for a final decision on each aspirant. Imoke stated, "All three aspirants were present. The screening followed the party's requirements, and there was no bow-and-go."
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and economist Mohammed Hayatu-Deen participated in the ADC presidential screening in Abuja. Hayatu-Deen expressed confidence in the ADC as a credible platform capable of defeating the All Progressives Congress (APC) and offering Nigerians a serious alternative based on competence and solutions-driven leadership.
Atiku described his engagement with the screening panel as more than a routine process, calling it an opportunity to present a practical pathway for rescuing Nigeria from economic stagnation, unemployment, institutional drift, and insecurity. Amaechi pledged to abolish the Federal Character system if elected, arguing that it fails to recognize capacity in leadership. He assured that his screening was smooth and promised to abide by the party's decision.
NDC Clears Peter Obi
The NDC's screening committee, chaired by former Ebonyi State Governor Sam Egwu, cleared Obi on Tuesday, as announced via a video on the party's X handle. Egwu stated, "Following the screening of the NDC presidential aspirant, Peter Obi, and having satisfied all requirements of the party constitution, the Electoral Act, and the Nigerian Constitution, he is hereby cleared to contest in the presidential primaries."
Reacting on his X account, Obi noted that the screening, which included a review of his academic credentials, lasted over two hours. He added, "I addressed questions regarding my vision for a new Nigeria and the type of leadership our nation urgently needs." Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso left the ADC on May 3, 2026, to join the NDC, citing internal issues.
Al-Mustapha Calls for Political Reset
Speaking at a Social Democratic Party (SDP) gathering, Hamza Al-Mustapha, former Chief Security Officer to late General Sani Abacha, called for a deep reset of Nigeria's political culture. He warned against recycling deception, betrayal, and failed promises. Al-Mustapha commended the emergence of new party leadership as a step toward rebuilding trust and strengthening internal unity.
He criticized leaders who present themselves as agents of change but abandon promises once in power, describing this as a cause of public frustration and declining trust in governance. Al-Mustapha urged citizens to become more vigilant and politically aware, emphasizing that no party is without internal strain, but the ability to withstand pressure will determine future strength. He called on young Nigerians to take an active role in shaping the country's direction and not be swayed by empty promises or propaganda.
