Former Cross River Governor Donald Duke Officially Joins ADC, Bolstering Opposition Ahead of 2027 Elections
In a significant political realignment, Donald Duke, the former governor of Cross River State, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). This move, confirmed on Friday, January 30, 2026, signals a major shift in Nigeria's political landscape as opposition figures consolidate forces ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Defection Details and Political Background
Donald Duke, who served as governor of Cross River State from 1999 to 2007 and contested the Nigerian presidency in 2019, was formally registered as an ADC member in Ward 5, Calabar Municipality, Cross River State. The event, marked by cheers from supporters, saw Duke receive his membership card, cementing his departure from the PDP. This marks the second time Duke has left the PDP, having previously defected to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), where he emerged as the party's presidential candidate amid controversy.
Growing Opposition Coalition Against APC
Duke's defection is part of a broader trend of opposition leaders joining the ADC to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections. Notable figures who have chosen the ADC as their new political home include former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who broke away from the PDP, and ex-Anambra governor Peter Obi, who left the Labour Party (LP). This coalition represents one of the most significant political shake-ups in Nigeria since the end of military rule in 1999.
Strategic Unity to Counter Vote Splitting
The formation of this united front stems from a series of talks among opposition leaders aimed at preventing vote splitting in the 2027 elections. In the 2023 election, President Tinubu won with just 37% of the vote, while opposition supporters were divided between Atiku Abubakar (29%) and Peter Obi (25%). By consolidating under the ADC banner, these leaders hope to present a stronger challenge to the APC, leveraging their combined political influence and voter base.
Key Figures and Potential Expansions
Beyond Duke, Atiku, and Obi, other prominent politicians have aligned with the ADC coalition. These include ex-Rivers governor Rotimi Amaechi, former Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai, and Senator Aminu Tambuwal. Additionally, reports suggest that the ADC has been holding discreet talks with former President Goodluck Jonathan regarding a possible presidential run in 2027, though the party has not yet decided on an automatic ticket for any candidate.
Implications for Nigerian Politics
This development underscores the dynamic and evolving nature of Nigeria's political arena, with realignments shaping the prelude to the 2027 elections. The ADC's growing coalition of experienced politicians and former governors could significantly impact electoral strategies and voter mobilization, setting the stage for a highly competitive presidential race. As opposition forces unite, the political landscape is poised for intense engagement and potential transformation in the coming years.
