Tensions are rising within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following explosive claims by its 2023 presidential candidate, Dumebi Kachikwu, who accused the newly formed faction of the party of plotting to hand over its 2027 presidential ticket to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Kachikwu, addressing journalists in Abuja on Thursday, alleged that the faction, reportedly aligned with former Senate President David Mark, was deliberately structured to serve northern political interests, with Atiku as the intended standard bearer.
“This coalition was created with a single goal: to anoint Atiku Abubakar as the 2027 presidential candidate of the ADC,” Kachikwu stated. “Let them come out publicly and say the presidential ticket is zoned to the South if I am wrong.”
He recounted a recent meeting with members of the group, saying their dominant rhetoric revolved around regaining political control, not national development.
“All they kept saying was that it was time to take their power back,” he said.
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Kachikwu’s comments come just a day after the ADC coalition was officially unveiled, drawing significant attention nationwide.
The launch saw the surprise inclusion of major political heavyweights such as Labour Party’s Peter Obi, former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi, and ex-Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai—all of whom were present at the event and are seen as key influencers ahead of 2027.
Their involvement has sparked speculation about a possible mega opposition alliance aimed at challenging the dominance of Nigeria’s two main parties—the APC and PDP—in the next general elections.
However, Kachikwu remains unconvinced by the coalition’s intentions and is demanding transparency about its direction and presidential zoning plans.