The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has expressed concern over the possibility of a joint opposition ticket between former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former presidential candidate Peter Obi ahead of the 2027 elections.
The warning was issued on Thursday, December 12, 2025, by ADC spokesperson Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, highlighting uncertainties surrounding opposition collaboration at a critical juncture in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Abdullahi noted that while both Obi and Atiku maintain significant political influence and grassroots support, neither has formally signalled a willingness to unite for a shared presidential bid.
The ADC spokesperson stressed that the lack of clarity fuels speculation and could potentially fragment opposition efforts in 2027, weakening their chances to challenge the ruling party.
He further emphasised that Nigeria faces rising economic challenges, security threats, and growing public distrust in governance. In this context, Abdullahi said a credible opposition alliance is essential to present Nigerians with a viable alternative to the ruling party.
“What the country needs is synergy, not fragmented bids,” he noted, urging opposition leaders to prioritise unity over personal ambitions.
Political analysts have warned that without strategic cooperation, opposition parties risk diluting their electoral strength, allowing the ruling party to consolidate power amid economic and social pressures.
The ADC sees a potential Obi-Atiku collaboration as a key factor in rebalancing Nigeria’s political dynamics, but stressed that such a union is not yet guaranteed.
Historically, opposition alliances in Nigeria have been fragile, often collapsing due to disagreements over leadership structures, running mate arrangements, and policy priorities.
Observers say that both Obi and Atiku would need to negotiate terms that satisfy their respective support bases, reconcile political ideologies, and align campaign strategies if a successful partnership is to emerge.
Abdullahi called on all opposition actors to engage in constructive dialogue and demonstrate readiness to prioritise national interest over individual ambitions.
He argued that voters are increasingly discerning, expecting credible coalitions capable of addressing critical national issues such as unemployment, inflation, security challenges, and systemic corruption.
The ADC spokesperson concluded by stating that Nigerians should not expect fragmented campaigns to yield meaningful results.
“The electorate is watching and expects strategic alliances that reflect a serious commitment to national development and good governance,” he said.
Political commentators have noted that while discussions of an Obi-Atiku alliance dominate media discourse, timing, strategic calculations, and party negotiations will ultimately determine whether such a coalition materialises.
Analysts predict that the next 12–18 months will be decisive for opposition unity, as parties position themselves for early campaigns, grassroots mobilisation, and stakeholder engagement.
The ADC continues to monitor developments closely, advocating for transparent negotiations and credible planning that prioritise voters’ interests and national stability.
