ADC Crisis Deepens as Atiku Tries to Win Back Hayatu Deen Back

The Reconciliation effort within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has taken centre stage following a closed-door meeting between former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and fellow presidential aspirant Hayatu-Deen in Lagos. Coming just days after a fiercely contested and heavily disputed party primary, the meeting has sparked fresh questions about whether the ADC can successfully unite its ranks ahead of the 2027 general election or whether unresolved grievances will continue to haunt the opposition coalition.

Atiku Reaches Out to Rivals Following Controversial ADC Primary

The meeting between Atiku and Hayatu-Deen is widely viewed as part of a broader campaign to stabilize the ADC after internal disagreements emerged during and after the presidential primary. Hayatu-Deen had withdrawn from the process before the official announcement of results, alleging widespread vote rigging and electoral irregularities. He maintained that some of the incidents were personally observed and expressed concern about the integrity of the exercise.

Despite those objections, party officials proceeded with the declaration of results, naming Atiku as the presidential flag bearer. The outcome also drew criticism from former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi, who described the figures as questionable and argued that many participants had been disenfranchised. In response to the growing discontent, Atiku began a series of engagements with key stakeholders, including Amaechi and now Hayatu-Deen, in an apparent effort to prevent divisions from widening within the party.

ADC Leadership Pushes Unity Despite Complaints Over Presidential Primary

The ADC finds itself navigating a familiar challenge faced by many political parties attempting to build broad coalitions before a major election. Since the influx of prominent opposition figures and political heavyweights into the party during the ongoing realignment of Nigeria’s opposition landscape, expectations have risen significantly regarding the party’s ability to present a united alternative in 2027.

ADC National Chairman Senator David Mark has defended the primary process, insisting that it was largely free and fair while acknowledging that no election is entirely without imperfections. Political analysts note that reconciliation efforts often become as important as the primary contest itself, particularly when high-profile aspirants command significant regional influence and loyal support bases. The success or failure of these negotiations could affect not only internal party stability but also the broader opposition strategy against President Bola Tinubu in the next election cycle.

The coming weeks may determine whether Reconciliation becomes the foundation upon which the ADC builds a united campaign or merely a temporary ceasefire in a dispute that remains unresolved. OGM News Nigeria will continue monitoring developments, especially any public statements emerging from the Atiku-Hayatu-Deen discussions and their implications for the party’s preparations for 2027.