Fresh uncertainty has emerged within Nigeria’s opposition political space following reports that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has allegedly fallen ill, a development party insiders claim contributed to the postponement of the presidential screening exercise of the African Democratic Congress.
The situation comes at a critical moment for the African Democratic Congress as it intensifies preparations for its presidential primaries ahead of the next general election cycle. The party is currently engaged in internal consultations aimed at selecting a consensus candidate capable of strengthening its electoral competitiveness.
According to multiple party sources who spoke on condition of anonymity, Atiku Abubakar, a leading figure in the party’s presidential race, reportedly became unwell over the weekend and has been placed under medical supervision at his residence. The sources further alleged that he has been advised by his personal physician to remain on strict rest.
The claims have not been independently verified by official medical documentation or confirmed through a formal statement from his camp. However, they have continued to circulate within political circles and contributed to heightened speculation regarding the internal dynamics of the party’s presidential selection process.
Atiku Abubakar, a prominent Nigerian politician and former Vice President of Nigeria, remains one of the most influential figures in opposition politics. His involvement in the African Democratic Congress has drawn significant attention, particularly as the party seeks to position itself as a viable alternative in the national political landscape.
The African Democratic Congress, a political organization seeking to expand its national influence, had initially scheduled its presidential screening exercise earlier in the week. However, the exercise was later postponed to Wednesday following what party officials described as logistical adjustments and ongoing consultations among stakeholders.
Insiders within the party revealed that the postponement was influenced by multiple factors, including disagreements over the emergence of a consensus candidate and the need to accommodate internal engagements with key aspirants. The process is part of the party’s broader strategy to streamline its selection ahead of the primaries.
Among the key figures under consideration for the party’s presidential ticket are Rotimi Amaechi, a former Governor of Rivers State and experienced political actor, Mohammed Hayatu Deen, a businessman and policy strategist, alongside Atiku Abubakar himself. These individuals have been central to ongoing negotiations aimed at consolidating support within the party.
Party members have reportedly been divided over the best approach to the selection process, with some advocating for a consensus arrangement while others insist on a competitive primary election. The lack of agreement has contributed to delays in the screening process and uncertainty about the final timetable.
Sources further indicated that prior to the reported illness, arrangements had been made for party officials to meet Atiku Abubakar to discuss campaign direction and manifesto development. However, the meeting reportedly could not hold after they were informed that he was unavailable due to health reasons.
Another insider disclosed that the former Vice President’s condition was first noticed on Saturday and that medical attention was immediately provided at his residence. He was subsequently advised to limit public engagements while recovering.
Despite these reports, Atiku Abubakar’s media aides have dismissed claims suggesting that he is in serious health condition. They described the circulating reports as misleading and insisted that there is no cause for alarm regarding his wellbeing. Other members of his communication team have not issued additional clarifications.
Meanwhile, uncertainty continues to surround the African Democratic Congress presidential primary scheduled for later in the month. Party officials have acknowledged internal challenges, including financial constraints and ongoing consultations, which they say are necessary to ensure a stable and unified front ahead of the election.
The screening exercise is a key procedural step in the party’s nomination process. It involves evaluation of candidates’ eligibility, political experience, policy direction, and readiness to contest at the national level. The outcome of the exercise is expected to influence the final list of aspirants proceeding to the primaries.
Political observers note that the current developments highlight broader challenges within Nigeria’s opposition parties, particularly the difficulty of achieving unity among prominent aspirants with strong political backgrounds and individual support bases.
The African Democratic Congress has in recent months intensified efforts to rebrand and reposition itself as a stronger political force. Party leadership has repeatedly emphasized the importance of unity, strategic planning, and consensus building as essential tools for electoral success.
However, internal disagreements and competing ambitions have continued to test the party’s cohesion. The latest developments surrounding the screening exercise and the health reports involving Atiku Abubakar have further intensified public attention on the party’s internal affairs.
As the situation develops, stakeholders within the party are expected to continue consultations in an effort to stabilize the process and ensure that the presidential primary proceeds as planned. Observers say the outcome of these negotiations could significantly influence the party’s performance in the next general election.
For now, the African Democratic Congress has not issued a comprehensive official statement directly addressing the alleged illness or confirming whether further adjustments will be made to the screening timetable. Supporters and aspirants are awaiting clarity from the party leadership as political activities continue.
