2027: ADC Considers Consensus Option for Presidential Candidate

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has indicated it may adopt a consensus approach in selecting its presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, as part of efforts to strengthen internal cohesion and reduce costs.

 

The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, disclosed this during an appearance on One-on-One, a programme on Arise Television.

 

He explained that while the party still retains the option of direct primaries, the consensus model is currently being prioritised.

 

“We are trying as much as possible to adopt the consensus approach because that is the least costly for us. For us, the best-case scenario is to be able to engineer consensus, and that’s what we are working on,” Abdullahi said.

 

He added that indirect primaries are no longer being considered, in line with provisions of the amended Electoral Act.

 

Abdullahi also took a swipe at the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), arguing that its unity is largely dependent on the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

 

“If you take power out of APC, APC is actually nothing. Post Bola Tinubu, they will unravel quickly. He is the glue holding the party together,” he said.

 

He further described the APC as a “special purpose vehicle,” established to deliver electoral victories for former President Muhammadu Buhari and President Tinubu.

 

The ADC spokesperson also alleged that the ruling party was showing signs of unease ahead of future elections, despite its current dominance across political structures.

 

“In any free and fair election in Nigeria today, there’s no way APC will win,” he claimed, adding that Nigerians are increasingly dissatisfied with the party.

 

The ADC has recently gained attention as a potential coalition platform for opposition figures ahead of 2027, with names such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, and former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi being linked to the party.

 

However, no official declarations have been made, and the party says consultations are ongoing as it positions itself for the next electoral cycle.