– African Democratic Congress allegedly in talks with five PDP governors, aims to benefit from Wike-led PDP rift
– Party insiders claim ADC has been building cross-party alliances for over 18 months
– At least seven governors, including some in APC, reportedly engaged in defection talks
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is reportedly making serious political moves to attract at least five sitting governors into its fold ahead of the 2027 general elections, leveraging internal turmoil within major political parties — especially the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
According to a report by Punch Newspapers, party insiders revealed that some current governors — largely from the PDP — have shown interest in joining the ADC once the party concludes internal power struggles, particularly those involving the controversial influence of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
PDP crisis fueling ADC's momentum
One top source in the ADC, a former senator from Katsina State, confirmed the development, noting:
“Five PDP governors have given us their commitment; they are going to join us, but they want to see the end of Wike’s drama in the PDP. Hopefully, we will meet them by the end of their next convention and review things.”
The source added that the coalition began forming nearly 18 months ago, and includes support from some APC governors as well.
“Some APC governors were contacted about a year ago. So, they are with us, but I won’t tell you any names,” he said.
Talks with seven governors underway
Another ADC insider — an aide to a former governor and minister — also confirmed that seven sitting governors from both the north and south are currently in talks with ADC stakeholders.
“Why are you interested in knowing the governors we’re talking to? You want us to put everything we’re doing on the pages of a newspaper? No! But I can tell you that we are talking to seven governors, and they are from the southern and northern parts of the country.”
Although no specific names or parties were disclosed, the ongoing moves suggest the ADC may be positioning itself as a major third-force coalition ahead of 2027.
ADC leadership keeps mum on defection plans
When contacted for confirmation, the immediate past National Chairman of the ADC, Ralph Nwosu, declined to give details, describing the governors’ defection talks as a "top-secret" operation.
“That is a top-secret matter. You can’t hear it from me. If you ask about other matters regarding the coalition, you are very welcome,” he told Punch.
Background
The ADC, which has remained on the political sidelines in recent elections, appears to be working quietly to build a cross-party alliance that could shift power dynamics in the run-up to 2027. The party is reportedly banking on the lingering disunity within PDP and growing dissatisfaction within APC ranks to swell its base.
If confirmed, the defections would mark a major political shake-up, potentially setting the stage for a realignment of power ahead of the next general election.
