ADC 2027: FEAR OF DEFEAT IN DIRECT PRIMARY FUELS CONSENSUS PUSH FOR ATIKU
E-ISSN:2354-4481
By Rhodes Ekene Obah
Fresh disagreements have reportedly surfaced within the opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), raising concerns among party stakeholders about the process for selecting the party’s presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to sources within the party who spoke anonymously, consultations are ongoing among key stakeholders on the possibility of adopting a consensus arrangement for the party’s presidential primary. The move, sources claim, is aimed at producing a unified candidate and avoiding a divisive contest within the party.
One of the sources alleged that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is being considered by some influential figures within the coalition as the preferred consensus candidate. The source further claimed that efforts are being made to persuade other aspirants to support the arrangement in the interest of party unity.
The source also mentioned former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, as one of the leading figures allegedly being approached in the ongoing consultations. Businessman and presidential hopeful Mohammed Hayatu-Deen was also identified as another aspirant in the race.
Another party insider warned that disagreements over the mode of the primary election could deepen divisions within the coalition if not carefully managed. The source referred to reports of a recent meeting involving ADC National Chairman, David Mark, and Amaechi, where discussions allegedly centered on the issue of consensus candidacy. However, details of the meeting remain unconfirmed by the parties involved.
Speaking during an interview on the Daily Trust Podcast, Amaechi dismissed speculations suggesting he may withdraw from the race in favour of another aspirant. He maintained that he purchased the party’s presidential nomination form to actively contest for the position.
According to him, the ADC constitution and the Electoral Act provide options for either a consensus arrangement or a direct primary election. He stated that where consensus fails, the party should allow members to decide through a transparent primary process.
When asked about his confidence in winning the primary election, Amaechi responded cautiously, saying the outcome would be determined on the day of the exercise.
Meanwhile, as the ADC begins the screening process for its presidential aspirants, discussions surrounding consensus candidacy and zoning have continued to generate debate among party members and political observers.
Analysts believe that while Atiku may enjoy extensive political networks and strong national visibility, Amaechi also remains a formidable contender with considerable grassroots support, political experience, and influence, particularly in parts of Northern Nigeria where he served alongside former President Muhammadu Buhari for eight years.
Observers say the eventual outcome of the ADC presidential primary may depend largely on whether the party adopts a consensus model or proceeds with a direct primary election involving delegates and members across the country.
Many Nigerians and party supporters have continued to call for a peaceful, transparent, and credible process capable of strengthening internal democracy within the coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Political commentators also note that the ongoing debate over zoning and consensus candidacy may remain a major issue within the coalition as aspirants intensify consultations across the country.
