Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other key stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) met in Abuja on Thursday to consolidate strategies ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Notably absent was the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who, however, sent his apologies and reaffirmed his loyalty to the coalition platform.

Naija News understands that Obi is currently on a three-day leadership and public conduct reflection visit to the United States, which has taken him to Washington, Chicago, and Atlanta. In a post on 𝕏, he noted that the tour allowed him to contrast the modesty of public service abroad with the attitudes often displayed by Nigerian leaders.

The ADC stakeholders’ meeting brought together prominent figures, including ADC National Chairman David Mark, National Secretary Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, and former Rivers State Governor Chibuike Amaechi.

Though absent, Obi reiterated his commitment to the coalition despite still being a card-carrying member of the Labour Party. The former Anambra governor has repeatedly declared his interest in contesting the 2027 presidential election — a position that places him in direct contention with Atiku and Amaechi, who are also reportedly eyeing the ADC ticket.

Meanwhile, the leadership of the coalition has instructed its members to resign from their current political parties and formally join the ADC. However, no specific deadline has been set for the transition.

ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, confirmed the directive on Thursday after the caucus meeting, stressing that the move was aimed at consolidating unity and presenting a strong opposition front.