Dumebi Kachikwu, former presidential candidate and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has alleged that a faction of the party backed by former Senate President David Mark is quietly laying the groundwork to support Atiku Abubakar as a potential candidate for the 2027 presidential election.
Kachikwu made the claims during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, accusing the faction of steering the party away from its founding ideals by aligning with long-standing political figures rather than fostering new leadership.
“There is a coordinated effort to transform ADC into a vehicle for Atiku’s presidential ambition,” Kachikwu said. “This undermines the spirit of alternative politics the ADC was created to promote.”
Internal Party Dispute Deepens
The ADC has faced internal divisions since the 2023 general elections, with multiple factions emerging over disagreements on leadership, party direction, and alliances with more dominant political actors. The alleged plan to position Atiku — the former Vice President and perennial presidential contender under the PDP — is likely to widen those rifts.
David Mark has yet to publicly respond to the allegations, and no formal endorsement of Atiku has been made by the ADC’s national executive committee.
Opposition Realignment Ahead of 2027
As Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 election season, political parties are already realigning, with coalitions, defections, and strategic endorsements beginning to take shape. Atiku, who lost to President Bola Tinubu in 2023, has remained a vocal figure in national politics and has not ruled out another run.
Observers say any formal move to back Atiku by smaller parties like the ADC could significantly alter opposition dynamics, especially if the PDP does not field a strong alternative.
Kachikwu’s Warning to the Party
Kachikwu urged party members to resist what he termed a “hostile takeover,” calling instead for unity, reform, and support for younger, homegrown candidates.
“We must decide whether ADC will be a platform for real change or just another stepping stone for career politicians,” he warned.
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