- Coalition Finalises Plans, Set To Adopt ADC For 2027, David Mark As Interim Chairman
- 2027: David Mark may lead coalition battle against Tinubu
- David Mark in, Anambra’s Okey Nwosu out, as ADC National Chairman
A major political shift is underway as top figures in Nigeria’s opposition have reportedly reached a consensus to adopt the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as their new political platform ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to exclusive revelations by Punch, the coalition—comprised of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi of the Labour Party, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi—has resolved to contest under the ADC banner.
In a decisive move to solidify the new political front, former Senate President David Mark has been unanimously appointed to serve as Interim National Chairman of the ADC. Multiple sources confirmed that efforts are already underway to restructure the party’s leadership to accommodate members of the coalition.
Key Leaders Back David Mark, Await Finalization of Other Positions
A source familiar with the negotiations said, “What I can tell you is that we have all agreed on the ADC as the national coalition platform. So, ADC is our party, and that has been settled. Another significant development is that we have all agreed that former President of the Senate, David Mark, should serve as the Interim National Chairman.”
However, the position of National Secretary remains open after former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola and Senator Ben Obi declined the role. Aregbesola reportedly cited age and personal advice from his wife as reasons for opting out.
An official unveiling of the coalition party was initially planned for earlier this week but was postponed due to Labour Party candidate Peter Obi’s decision to consult his supporters, including a sitting governor and lawmakers. The announcement is expected to be made public shortly.
Coalition Members Begin Full Integration Into ADC
Another insider revealed that loyalists of the coalition leaders have already begun merging into the ADC at the grassroots level. The decision to adopt ADC, according to the source, was influenced by time constraints and the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) alleged reluctance to approve the registration of a new political party.
“The agreement is that we will all leave our various parties and move to the platform we’ve agreed upon—ADC. Once it is unveiled, you will see each of us formally dumping our former platforms for the coalition party,” the source said.
He added that a critical meeting has been scheduled for next Wednesday to finalise unresolved matters, particularly the appointment of the National Secretary. The current ADC leadership, including the party’s National Working Committee, is expected to voluntarily vacate their positions to accommodate the incoming coalition leadership.
ADC National Chairman Backs Transition
Reacting to the development, Ralph Nwosu, current National Chairman of the ADC, welcomed the coalition’s move and hailed David Mark as a “disciplined and detribalised Nigerian” capable of uniting the party and country.
“I am aware of the development. The conversation has been ongoing for about 18 months. We are all committed to rescuing Nigeria from the failed APC. Enough of poverty and insecurity,” Nwosu stated.
He continued, “There is no better detribalised Nigerian that can lead ADC than former Senate President, David Mark… I am ready to step aside and sacrifice for Nigeria.”
What This Means Going Forward
This development signals a historic realignment in Nigeria’s political landscape, as heavyweights from the PDP, Labour Party, and APC unite under one umbrella to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
If successful, this coalition could pose the most formidable opposition to President Tinubu’s re-election ambitions, redefining political alliances ahead of the next general election.