By Kamal Yalwa – June 22, 2025 Amid mounting dissatisfaction with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, a broad coalition of opposition figures has moved closer to formalising a new political platform ahead of the 2027 general elections. The coalition, which includes prominent politicians such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, ex-FCT Minister Rotimi Amaechi, and Dr. Umar Ardo, has submitted an application to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the registration of a new party named the All Democratic Alliance (ADA). Motivation Behind the Coalition Political observers agree that the coalition is largely driven by public discontent over Tinubu’s administration, particularly in areas of national security, governance, and economic development. Coalition members argue that the essence of governance has been eroded under the current administration, and they believe that a united opposition front is the only viable path to rescue Nigeria from worsening socioeconomic conditions. Many coalition leaders—smarting from Tinubu’s 2023 victory—have acknowledged that a fragmented opposition contributed to the outcome of that election. They now aim to consolidate their strength through a unified platform. Strategic Move: ADA’s Formation A sub-committee chaired by Rotimi Amaechi and co-chaired by Dr. Umar Ardo was tasked with assessing the feasibility of building on an existing party or establishing a new one. After extensive deliberation, the committee recommended creating a fresh political brand free of “legacy baggage” and internal strife. In a five-page report titled “Report of the Sub-Committee on the Formation of a New Political Party for 2027 Elections,” the team outlined the strategic and psychological advantages of establishing a new party, highlighting the need for institutional innovation, public trust, narrative control, and broad-based mobilisation. “Registering a new political party is not just a tactical manoeuvre – it is a bold strategic act that redefines the opposition’s purpose,” the report stated. The coalition ultimately endorsed the formation of the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), described as a national renaissance movement rooted in democratic idealism, visionary leadership, and justice for all. ADA’s Vision and Identity The ADA positions itself as a party founded on moral clarity and public service, symbolised by a tree—representing strength, growth, stability, knowledge, and renewal. Its motto: “Justice for All.” The party’s guiding principles include: The committee believes ADA can bridge ethnic and political divides and rally Nigerians seeking genuine democratic transformation. Current Status and Challenges Despite the optimism, the coalition faces multiple internal and external challenges: Nonetheless, the ADA registration process with INEC is underway, and coalition leaders believe it offers a clean slate capable of energising Nigerians and contesting the 2027 elections credibly. What’s Next? With the party registration in progress and national rollout plans being finalised, all eyes are now on whether key players like Peter Obi will fully commit to the coalition. Analysts suggest that his involvement could secure significant votes from the South East and youth populations nationwide. As internal debates continue within the PDP and other parties, the emergence of ADA signals the beginning of what could be a defining realignment in Nigeria’s political landscape.
