The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has warned supporters of its presidential aspirants against promoting a “must-be-my-candidate” mentality, cautioning that such divisive loyalty could weaken the party’s chances in the 2027 general election.
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Bola Abdullahi, gave the warning on Saturday while speaking during the virtual ADC Coalition Hours, urging supporters to rally behind all aspirants and prioritise unity over personal preferences.
Abdullahi said the ADC, which was adopted as a coalition platform by opposition figures in July 2025 to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027, was focused on strengthening internal cohesion ahead of the election.
He noted that since former Senate President, David Mark, emerged as National Chairman and former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, as National Secretary, the party has been working to expand its structures nationwide and build public confidence.
Former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, joined the party in July 2025, followed by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in November, and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi on December 31, all of whom have indicated interest in contesting the ADC presidential ticket. Abdullahi added that more aspirants are expected to declare in the coming weeks.
He said differences among supporters of the aspirants, particularly over zoning of the presidential ticket, could pose a challenge to the party if not properly managed. While some supporters of Obi have advocated for the ticket to be zoned to the South, many Atiku supporters have argued for an open contest.
Abdullahi disclosed that he had held consultations with key coalition stakeholders, including the declared aspirants, to emphasise the need for unity and collective focus.
“I spent time talking to His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi and Rotimi Amaechi, who have indicated interest in vying for the presidential ticket of our party, as well as other leaders, to strengthen our party and unite it,” he said. “The general consensus is that we have a job to do to make this country a better place, and everyone is committed to ensuring that we win this election.”
Commenting on the timing of the 2027 polls, Abdullahi said while an early election could benefit the opposition due to public dissatisfaction with the current administration, it could also work against the ADC by limiting the time needed to reconcile after party primaries.
READ ALSO: 2027: Atiku ADC’s Best Candidate But Should Step Aside — Baba-Ahmed
“As an opposition, we need time to heal wounds after our primaries. We cannot afford to go into the election divided,” he said, adding that the party had no control over the election timetable.
He warned that supporters promoting an “either this candidate or nothing” narrative were indirectly working in favour of the ruling All Progressives Congress.
“What is important is winning the election, not just securing the ticket. We cannot carry divisiveness and expect to win,” Abdullahi said.
He added that the party would intensify efforts to promote cohesion and ensure its leaders speak with one voice, stressing that all aspirants are qualified and that attacking individuals or regions would only weaken the party’s prospects.
According to him, the ADC’s focus remains on unity, internal discipline and building broad national support ahead of the 2027 general election.