Political analyst Omotayo Yusuf has stated that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) remains untested, following the Ibadan declaration where opposition leaders agreed to support a consensus candidate against President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.
Opposition leaders gathered on Saturday, April 25, in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, for a national summit aimed at uniting against Tinubu. They pledged to back a single candidate emerging from the ADC primaries. Yusuf, in an interview with Legit.ng, welcomed the move but cautioned that the ADC has not yet proven its ability to manage internal crises.
Potential Internal Crisis Ahead
Yusuf highlighted that key figures like Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, and Rotimi Amaechi have expressed interest in the ADC presidential ticket. Obi has vowed to contest at all costs, Atiku sees 2027 as his final attempt, and Amaechi has been meeting party leaders. This crowded field could trigger a crisis during primaries.
“The coalition met in Ibadan, and Sowore released a statement claiming he was invited but refused to support a consensus candidate. This suggests the party is moving in the right direction, but we have not reached the point where the party would be truly tested,” Yusuf said.
Lack of Cohesion
Yusuf argued that the ADC has not exhibited enough unity to submit to a consensus candidate. He predicted that if Atiku emerges as the ADC candidate, the party would face an internal crisis affecting its leadership. “I am not convinced the party has what it takes to manage its internal crisis,” he added.
In related news, the Federal High Court in Abuja has restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognizing or participating in any congress organized by the controversial leadership of the ADC. Justice Joyce Abdulmalik barred David Mark and other prominent ADC leaders from party activities amid the leadership crisis.
These developments have sparked discussions as the 2027 general elections approach, with the ADC positioned as a key opposition platform.
