The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has raised concerns about the growing “conundrum” involving former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi as the 2027 presidential election approaches.
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, spoke on Friday during an interview, saying that while this issue is not the “greatest threat to democracy,” it is still a significant challenge the party needs to address.
Recent reports highlight that the presidential ambitions of both Atiku and Obi have created uncertainty within the ADC coalition.
Abdullahi explained that the ADC is currently focused on strengthening its structures across the country rather than debating potential presidential candidates.
He said the party is working hard to build a strong presence in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory as part of its election preparations.
According to Abdullahi, while the question of Atiku and Obi’s roles is something the party will have to resolve eventually, ADC’s priority is to build consensus when the time comes. If consensus cannot be reached, the party will open the contest to all interested aspirants.
He also clarified that the race is not just about Atiku and Obi. Other individuals have shown interest in the party’s presidential ticket, and the ADC is exploring various options, including talks with other political parties, to form a strong coalition ahead of 2027.
Abdullahi said, “I may not describe the situation as the greatest threat to democracy right now. But is it a conundrum? Yes. Is it a challenge? Yes. Is it something we are concerned about? Yes.
“We have maintained that it’s not just about Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi. No one in the ADC is currently discussing who the presidential candidates will be. Our focus has been on establishing a real presence to contest elections in all 36 states and the FCT.
“This has been our main focus in recent months, but we know it’s an issue we must address. When the time comes, we will try to build consensus. If that fails, we will open the contest to everyone.
“It’s not just about Atiku and Peter Obi; others are interested in running for president. We have to consider that. It’s not a battle only between Atiku and Obi.
“I agree it’s an option, but we are also looking at other possibilities, including talks with other parties to build a strong coalition and explore what can be achieved.”
Leave a comment