The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has established a high-level committee to engage influential politicians from opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections, Sunday PUNCH has learned.
A senior party official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the committee is not limited to any single party, as the ADC aims to strengthen collaboration among opposition forces in preparation for the polls. Reports suggest that the party is actively courting top political figures, including Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
Kwankwaso had publicly stated in Kano last Saturday that he was willing to join any opposition coalition that could offer him a presidential or vice-presidential ticket, while addressing rumors about the defection of Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf. He also outlined conditions for any potential opposition alliance.
The ADC official told Sunday PUNCH that the committee’s work is meant to engage party leaders and members at all levels, adding, “This is an internal process and not intended for public disclosure. We are maintaining open channels with all parties and individuals without targeting anyone specifically.”
ADC clarifies position on Kwankwaso
Another source within the party confirmed that National Chairman Senator David Mark informed Kwankwaso’s team that the ADC cannot guarantee either the presidential or vice-presidential ticket.
The ADC, which emerged in July 2025 as the coalition platform for opposition leaders seeking to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027, has been consolidating its structures nationwide under the leadership of Senator Mark and National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola.
Since then, the party has welcomed high-profile figures including Rotimi Amaechi (July), Atiku Abubakar (November), and Peter Obi (December 31), strengthening its base ahead of the elections.
Push for an inclusive government
The party source explained that while the ADC is interested in bringing Kwankwaso into the fold, it plans to do so through an inclusive government framework rather than offering top electoral tickets.
“The leadership has made it clear that no one will be promised the presidency or vice-presidency. Instead, we are exploring the distribution of ministerial positions, National Assembly leadership roles, and other key appointments to ensure broad participation,” the source said.
The ADC also confirmed that a committee has been tasked with deliberating and finalizing these arrangements, with Senator Mark expected to meet Kwankwaso in the coming days. The party remains optimistic that the former Kano governor will join the coalition to strengthen opposition efforts against the All Progressives Congress (APC).
ADC spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi declined to comment on the committee, but reiterated the party’s focus on expanding membership and capacity. “ADC is a party that has come to stay. We are committed to growing our base and removing the APC government,” he said.
NNPP responds
When reached, NNPP Publicity Secretary Oladipo Johnson confirmed ongoing consultations involving Kwankwaso and the party leadership, without specifying the ADC’s involvement.
“Our national leader and party leadership are consulting widely across the country. Any final decision will prioritize the interests of our members, the Kwankwasiyya movement, and Nigeria as a whole. An official statement will be released at the appropriate time,” Johnson said.
