Tension is growing within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Internal divisions are now threatening the coalition’s unity ahead of the 2027 elections.
Sources say top party figures are reconsidering their loyalty.
This follows former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s alleged plan to contest the 2027 presidency on the ADC platform.
Notably, former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai is reportedly uneasy.
He has openly supported a Southern president since 2023 and insists that the South must retain power until 2031.
As a result, Atiku’s ambition is causing deep cracks within the ADC coalition. Many believe his interest is solely to advance his political agenda.
Currently, it is unclear who El-Rufai supports for the 2027 race. However, insiders say he stands firm on supporting a Southern candidate.
So far, two Southerners Rotimi Amaechi and Peter Obi have shown interest. Both men contested in 2023 and are gearing up again.
One member of ADC’s interim management, who asked for anonymity, said:
“Atiku’s ambition could destroy the new coalition. It reminds us of the 2023 mistakes.”
He also mentioned that El-Rufai helped Bola Tinubu win the APC ticket in 2023. Still, he remains focused on ensuring a Southern presidency.
Meanwhile, ADC officials say Atiku is free to contest. Even so, they stress that every aspirant will face a level playing field.
Datti Returns to LP, Begins Peace Talks
The rising crisis in ADC has pushed Ahmed Datti to re-engage with the Labour Party (LP).
Backed by the Obidient movement, Datti’s move aims to rebuild peace in the Abure-led LP before 2027.
According to Dr. Katch Ononuju, a member of ADC:
“Atiku’s ambition could stop a Southern candidate again. That’s why Obidients left PDP in 2023.”
Ononuju also noted Atiku’s long-standing alliance with David Mark. He said it dates back to the 1993 elections.
Furthermore, he warned that if ADC pushes for a Northern candidate, El-Rufai might exit the party.
He emphasized that El-Rufai has always backed the South since 2023.
Labour Party Confirms Datti’s Return
Obiora Ifoh, LP’s spokesperson, confirmed Datti’s attendance at a recent NEC meeting. He explained:
“Datti returned for peace. We welcomed him because we believe his intentions are sincere.”
He also welcomed Peter Obi’s possible return.
However, he made it clear that there will be no automatic ticket for him.
According to Ifoh, Obi will compete with other aspirants if he rejoins LP.
In addition, Ifoh stated that the Obidient movement is now broader than LP. Members of the movement, he said, exist across APC, PDP, and LP.