By John Umeh
As the 2027 general elections inch closer, Nigeria’s political terrain is once again heating up — and at the heart of this storm is the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a party now facing intense pressure as the rivalry between former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi reaches a boiling point.
Initially seen as a potential “Third Force” in Nigerian politics, the ADC had hoped to offer an alternative voice to the two major blocs — the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP). However, recent political maneuverings and escalating tensions between Atiku and Obi have effectively dragged the ADC into a war it didn’t bargain for.
A Party Pulled in Two Directions
The ADC’s recent meetings, statements, and political alignments have been heavily scrutinized by both camps. While some factions within the party have reportedly leaned toward forming strategic alliances with Obi’s Labour Party, others see greater prospects aligning with Atiku’s seasoned PDP machinery. This internal split has intensified over the last few months, leaving the party fractured and vulnerable.
Sources close to ADC leadership say the party has become a “political battleground” with operatives from both Obi and Atiku’s camps lobbying aggressively for endorsements, joint platforms, and even possible defections. This has created a state of confusion and distrust within ADC ranks, with party elders struggling to maintain cohesion.
The 2027 Election Equation
With the political futures of both Atiku and Obi in flux — and both men refusing to back down or merge platforms — smaller parties like ADC are now seen as power brokers and potential kingmakers. This new relevance, however, comes at a cost. ADC’s stance could alienate voters depending on which way it leans, especially in a country increasingly polarized along ideological, ethnic, and generational lines.
Already, political analysts warn that ADC’s neutrality is hanging by a thread. “The ADC must tread carefully,” says Dr. Bolaji Ogunwale, a political strategist. “Their silence or alignment could either elevate their status or completely erode their credibility. Sitting on the fence is no longer an option.”
Internal Struggles and Leadership Pressure
Amid these pressures, the ADC’s national leadership is reportedly divided. Some influential party executives favor a progressive alliance with Obi, citing his popularity among youth and the growing urban base. Others, however, argue that Atiku’s political experience, established network, and deep war chest make him a safer bet.
This internal tug-of-war has delayed the party’s formal position on strategic partnerships ahead of 2027. Meanwhile, both Atiku and Obi have refused to step aside for one another — a stalemate that now places ADC at a dangerous crossroads.
What’s at Stake
For the ADC, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Its political relevance, future leadership, and voter trust hang in the balance. If it successfully navigates the Atiku–Obi storm, it could emerge as a credible national player. But if it falters or is seen as a tool of either political titan, it risks fading into obscurity like many once-promising third-party movements in Nigeria.
As the storm brews, one thing is clear — ADC can no longer afford to play the sidelines. The time for decisive leadership is now, and whichever path it chooses could either define or destroy its future in Nigeria’s evolving democracy.
