Atiku Defects to ADC, Sets Stage for 2027 Presidential Battle

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has formally pitched his political tent with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), marking his first major move since dumping the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in July.

Atiku confirmed his new affiliation yesterday on X (formerly Twitter), where he posted a photograph of himself holding the ADC membership card, accompanied by a brief caption: “It’s official.”

His switch signals a fresh chapter in his decades-long political journey and sets the tone for what could be a major realignment within Nigeria’s opposition bloc ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The former PDP presidential standard-bearer had exited the party months earlier, citing what he described as entrenched internal crises and leadership disagreements that persisted despite multiple peace efforts. His departure widened existing cracks within the party and fuelled speculations about his future political direction.

By joining the ADC, Atiku becomes the most prominent political figure to align with the party, a move observers believe could reshape opposition calculations as the election season gathers momentum.

The ADC, which has struggled to gain national traction, is expected to receive a significant boost from Atiku’s entry, though analysts remain divided over how the party intends to leverage his influence for 2027.

With this development, Atiku becomes the latest heavyweight to reposition ahead of what promises to be one of Nigeria’s most fiercely contested elections.