Crisis Rocks ADC as Faction Rejects Atiku-Led Coalition’s Takeover Plan

A major political rift has erupted within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a faction of the party has openly rejected the adoption of the party by a coalition of opposition leaders spearheaded by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

Musa Isa Matara, spokesperson for the dissenting faction, released a statement condemning what he called an “imposed arrangement” by elite politicians trying to hijack the party without proper consultation with grassroots members.

According to Matara, no legitimate meetings involving state executives, women and youth leaders, or ward coordinators were held prior to the announcement of the merger.

The controversial adoption of ADC by the coalition came after an Abuja meeting that included Atiku, former Senate President David Mark, former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, and other high-profile politicians, who declared ADC as the coalition’s new platform for the 2027 general elections.

The opposition coalition had announced key interim leadership roles within ADC, appointing David Mark as interim national chairman and Aregbesola as interim secretary. This move was meant to unify the fragmented opposition ahead of the 2027 polls.

However, the factional leadership within ADC has labelled the appointments illegitimate, citing lack of ratification by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).

The statement also noted that the ADC has been embroiled in unresolved legal battles since the 2023 elections a situation that the faction claims makes any political merger risky and unstable.

“The ADC is not for sale. It belongs to its members, not political merchants or elite dealmakers,” Matara declared.

He further warned: “Anyone attempting to force a coalition without grassroots consent is violating democratic principles and endangering the party’s legal and structural integrity.”