By John Umeh
Opposition politics gathered momentum on Sunday as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stepped up preparations for the 2027 general elections, signaling renewed determination to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which currently controls the majority of states across the country.
In a major political development, the Kwankwasiyya Movement announced that its leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, would officially join the ADC, marking a significant shift in Nigeria’s political landscape. The formal registration is scheduled to take place at Kwankwaso’s residence in Kano, with supporters nationwide urged to align with the party at ward, local government, and state levels.
The announcement followed a high-profile meeting last week involving Kwankwaso, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson, and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde. The gathering, held during the Sallah celebration, fueled speculation about a possible opposition alliance ahead of the 2027 elections.
Political observers believe the emerging collaboration could reshape the opposition, potentially combining Obi’s strong youth support base with Kwankwaso’s influence in Northern Nigeria.
Sources indicated that Kwankwaso had previously explored joining the APC but opted for the ADC after negotiations reportedly failed. He was said to have sought a clear political role, including a vice-presidential slot, along with guarantees for his supporters — demands that were reportedly rejected by key APC figures.
Meanwhile, the ADC has begun considering a consensus method for selecting its presidential candidate. The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the approach is being explored primarily to reduce costs and avoid internal disputes.
He explained that while direct primaries remain an option, the party is focusing on consensus as the most practical route to unity and efficiency ahead of the polls.
As the ADC weighs its options, several prominent political figures have been linked to a potential presidential ticket, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi. However, none of them has officially declared interest.
Pressure is also mounting on the party to hand its presidential ticket to Obi. The Village Boys Movement recently organised what it described as a nationwide mobilisation exercise across multiple states to demonstrate support for the former Anambra governor and encourage mass registration into the ADC.
The group described the turnout as evidence of growing grassroots momentum, urging the party leadership to reflect the popular sentiment in its eventual decision.
Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose also weighed in, suggesting that the ADC’s chances in the 2027 election could depend heavily on Obi’s participation. He argued that without Obi on the ballot, the party might struggle to compete effectively.
While developments unfolded within the ADC, the PDP also intensified its internal processes during its national convention in Abuja. Over 2,000 delegates participated in the gathering organised by the Abdulrahman Mohammed-led caretaker committee.
Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike expressed confidence that the PDP would remain competitive in the 2027 elections despite internal crises and defections. He praised party members for their resilience and called for unity and sacrifice to rebuild the party.
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki also expressed optimism, stating that the successful convention strengthened the party’s readiness for the next election cycle. He noted that the presence of electoral officials added credibility to the process.
Similarly, former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido appealed to aggrieved members to return to the party and support reconciliation efforts aimed at rebuilding the opposition platform.
However, not all party leaders shared the same view. Former PDP Deputy National Chairman Olabode George accused the ruling APC of attempting to weaken opposition parties ahead of the elections. He alleged political interference in opposition affairs and warned that such actions could undermine democratic competition.
