ADC Woos Opposition Heavyweights With Discreet Committee Ahead of 2027 Elections

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has intensified efforts to strengthen opposition collaboration ahead of the 2027 general elections, setting up a high-powered but discreet committee to engage prominent political figures across opposition parties. Party officials say the move is part of a broader strategy to consolidate influence, expand membership, and present a united front capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to senior party sources, the committee has been mandated to hold wide-ranging consultations without public fanfare, reflecting the sensitivity of ongoing negotiations. The development comes amid growing speculation over potential realignments within Nigeria’s opposition space, particularly following recent statements by influential political leaders signalling openness to new alliances.

Discreet Outreach to Opposition Leaders

A highly placed ADC official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the committee was established to engage political heavyweights across party lines. The official explained that the initiative was designed to ensure “proper engagements across all party ranks,” while stressing that it was not intended for public discussion at this stage.

The source noted that the ADC was not targeting any specific party or individual, but rather maintaining an open platform for dialogue. This approach, the official said, is aimed at building trust and avoiding premature disclosures that could complicate negotiations or fuel speculation.

Another party insider corroborated this account, stating that the committee’s mandate extends beyond any single opposition party. According to the source, the ADC is focused on strengthening cooperation among opposition forces as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.

Kwankwaso’s Conditions and ADC’s Position

The committee’s work has drawn attention amid reports that the ADC is courting top political figures from other parties, including the national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. Kwankwaso recently stated in Kano that he was open to aligning with any opposition coalition willing to offer him either the presidential or vice-presidential ticket.

He made the remarks while addressing supporters amid rumours surrounding possible defections within Kano State politics, outlining conditions under which he would consider joining an opposition alliance. The comments added a new dimension to discussions around opposition unity.

However, sources within the ADC have ruled out the possibility of offering either the presidential or vice-presidential ticket to Kwankwaso. One source disclosed that the party’s National Chairman, Senator David Mark, had made it clear to the Kwankwaso camp that no such assurances could be given, given the party’s internal realities and broader coalition framework.

Coalition Strategy and Inclusive Governance

Since emerging in July 2025 as the coalition platform adopted by opposition leaders seeking to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027, the ADC has undergone significant restructuring. Under the leadership of former Senate President David Mark as National Chairman and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary, the party has focused on consolidating its structures nationwide.

The party has also attracted high-profile defectors, including former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi in July, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in November, and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi on December 31. Party insiders say these developments have strengthened the ADC’s profile as a viable opposition platform.

Commenting on the coalition build-up, a party source revealed that the ADC is exploring the idea of an inclusive government of national unity. Such an arrangement, the source said, would accommodate figures like Kwankwaso and their support bases through key political and administrative positions, rather than through pre-allocated presidential tickets.

Another senior party figure explained that while the ADC was not offering top tickets, discussions could cover other roles, including ministerial appointments, leadership positions in the National Assembly, and even the position of Secretary to the Government of the Federation. The source added that Senator Mark was expected to meet Kwankwaso to explore these possibilities further.

Party and NNPP Reactions

ADC spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi declined to comment directly on the existence or activities of the committee. He, however, reaffirmed the party’s commitment to expanding its reach and capacity, saying the ADC would “leave no stone unturned” in its effort to grow membership and challenge the APC-led government.

Meanwhile, the NNPP confirmed that consultations were ongoing. The party’s Publicity Secretary, Oladipo Johnson, said Kwankwaso and the NNPP leadership were engaging widely with stakeholders across the country, though he did not specify whether the ADC was among the parties involved.

Johnson assured supporters that any decision taken would reflect the best interests of the Kwankwasiyya movement and the nation at large, adding that an official statement would be issued at the appropriate time to clarify the party’s position.