Leading opposition figures, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, and ex-Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, have commenced fresh political calculations ahead of the 2027 general elections, amid uncertainty rocking the African Democratic Congress.
PLATFORM TIMES gathered that the trio, alongside other opposition stakeholders, are weighing alternative political platforms, notably the Action Peoples Party and the New Democratic Congress, as contingency options should the crisis within the ADC persist.
The development follows the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission to suspend recognition of all factions of the ADC leadership, in compliance with a Court of Appeal ruling and ongoing litigations over the party’s structure.
Findings indicate that the lingering leadership tussle has raised concerns over the party’s eligibility to field candidates in the next general elections, with insiders warning that prolonged legal battles could invalidate any process conducted under the disputed leadership.
A source familiar with the situation told PLATFORM TIMES that aspirants contesting under the ADC risk disqualification if the party’s recognition is not restored before critical electoral deadlines.
The source said, “If the crisis lingers and candidates emerge under the ADC, there is a real possibility that such candidacies could be voided if the party eventually loses legal standing. It is not something politicians are willing to gamble with.”
Investigations further revealed that emergency consultations are ongoing among key opposition leaders, with high-level meetings expected to hold in Abuja after the Easter break to determine a unified strategy.
Multiple sources disclosed that the timing of party primaries and submission of candidates’ lists to INEC has heightened the urgency of the consultations, as stakeholders seek to avoid procedural pitfalls that could jeopardise their participation.
The Action Peoples Party is said to be gaining traction among the opposition due to its relatively stable structure and existing, though limited, representation in the National Assembly.
Similarly, the New Democratic Congress, reportedly backed by former Bayelsa State governor Seriake Dickson, is being considered for its absence of internal disputes, despite its minimal electoral footprint.
Analysts warn that the opposition’s ability to forge a united front under a credible and legally stable platform will be pivotal in shaping the outcome of the 2027 presidential contest.
They noted that while a strategic realignment could strengthen the opposition against the ruling All Progressives Congress, prolonged uncertainty within the ADC may weaken its bargaining power and electoral prospects.
As consultations intensify, insiders hinted that any final decision on a fallback platform would be closely guarded to avoid giving political advantage to rivals ahead of what is expected to be a keenly contested election cycle.
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