2027 Elections: Atiku, Obi, Mark Launch ADC to Unseat Tinubu
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and former Senate President David Mark have officially launched a unified opposition front under the African Democratic Congress, ADC, in a bold move to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.
The coalition was unveiled at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja and attracted key political figures, including former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El Rufai and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi. David Mark was announced as interim national chairman of the ADC, while former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, was named interim national secretary.
Speaking at the event, Mark described the coalition as a democratic necessity aimed at halting what he called the gradual slide into a one party state. He emphasized that the ADC would now serve as a common platform for like-minded politicians seeking to restore balance and accountability in governance. He also accused the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, of using state power to weaken opposition voices through intimidation and defection.
According to insiders, the formation of this coalition stems from shared concerns about Nigeria’s deepening economic and security crises. The rising cost of living, ongoing insecurity, and public dissatisfaction with the current administration have provided momentum for opposition figures to seek unity ahead of 2027.
Party leaders also revealed that discussions are ongoing to adopt a rotational model, with proposals for a single term presidential candidate emerging as a compromise to ease internal rivalry and promote national consensus.
However, critics have expressed skepticism about the coalition’s staying power. Political analysts note that previous attempts at broad-based opposition coalitions have failed due to ego clashes and poor coordination. There are concerns that the array of high-profile figures may struggle to agree on a unified policy agenda or presidential ticket.
In response to the ADC announcement, the APC dismissed the alliance as a recycled gathering of political actors motivated by personal ambition. A party spokesperson described the coalition as “dead on arrival,” claiming that the APC remains the most viable political structure in the country.
Despite these criticisms, the ADC coalition plans to hold a national convention in the coming months, build grassroots structures across Nigeria, and present what they described as “a credible and united alternative” to the current leadership.
Observers say the coming months will be crucial in determining whether this coalition can transform shared grievances into a viable electoral force capable of shifting the balance of power in 2027.