July 10, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is facing a potential crisis ahead of the 2027 general elections, following a declaration by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar that he will not step down in favor of a Southern presidential candidate.
Atiku made this statement after a closed-door meeting with ADC leaders, emphasizing the need for open and transparent primaries.
Atiku stated emphatically, “No pressure will make me step down. I will not be pressured into abandoning my constitutional right to aspire. Let every qualified member test their popularity through a credible primary. Zoning must not be used to silence competence.”
This declaration has raised a fierce backlash from members of the Obidient Movement, who insist that Peter Obi is the only acceptable candidate.
According to sources, the Obidients have declared that if Atiku insists on contesting, they will pull out of the coalition, saying, “It’s either Obi or we pull out.”
The friction between Atiku’s camp and the Obidients has raised concerns about the coalition’s ability to build a united front ahead of the 2027 general elections. Political watchers say both sides refuse to shift ground, and if not quickly addressed, this friction may derail the coalition’s efforts.
The debate centers around merit-based contest versus zoning, with Atiku’s camp arguing for the former and the Obidients pushing for the latter. As the situation stands, the future of the ADC coalition hangs in the balance.
The party insiders are warning that the coalition may collapse before it even begins, and it remains to be seen how this situation will play out.
Atiku remains resolute in his decision to contest the presidential election, and it is unclear whether the ADC will be able to find a way to reconcile the differences between its members.
