Plans for a united opposition front ahead of the 2027 general elections have suffered a major setback, as internal disagreements over the presidential ticket have fractured the alliance formed under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The coalition, which was initially created to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid, has now effectively collapsed following the exit of key political figures.
The alliance, which brought together prominent leaders including Atiku Abubakar, David Mark, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, and Peter Obi, was formed with the aim of unseating the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). However, tensions began to rise over which region should produce the party’s presidential candidate and who would ultimately secure the ticket.
Negotiations reportedly broke down after weeks of deadlock between camps loyal to Atiku and Obi, alongside other aspirants, leading to a deepening crisis within the party.
The situation was further complicated by leadership disputes within the ADC. After the resignation of the party’s National Working Committee, an interim leadership led by David Mark was introduced, but was challenged by a faction headed by Nafiu Bala, who insisted he remained the rightful national chairman.
The leadership tussle escalated to the courts, with conflicting rulings from lower courts and the Court of Appeal before the Supreme Court reinstated Mark’s leadership—though the broader dispute remains unresolved.
Amid the growing crisis, several key figures have begun to distance themselves from the party. Notably, Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso have reportedly moved to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), signalling a major realignment in the opposition landscape.
Political observers say the inability of the coalition to agree on zoning and candidate selection played a central role in its collapse. Allegations of attempts to influence the process financially also deepened mistrust among stakeholders.
With more defections expected in the coming days, analysts warn that the fragmentation of opposition forces could once again split votes, potentially strengthening the position of the ruling party ahead of the 2027 elections.