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Tensions Rise Within ADC Coalition as Atiku, Obi Stall on Membership Ahead of 2027 Elections

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago06 mins

With the 2027 general elections drawing closer, uncertainty looms within the African Democratic Congress (ADC)-led opposition coalition as the much-anticipated membership of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Anambra State Governor Peter Obi remains unresolved, casting doubt on the coalition’s momentum and strategic direction. Multiple high-level sources within the coalition, who spoke to Sunday PUNCH on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the delay by Atiku, Obi, and other political heavyweights in formally joining the ADC has stalled the party’s growth and weakened its position as a unified alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Further complicating the party’s outlook are administrative and legal setbacks, including the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) delayed recognition of Senator David Mark as ADC National Chairman. Legal disputes and limited funding have also reportedly hampered operational activities across the country. Despite growing concerns, ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, insisted the coalition remains united and on course. “We are not disturbed over Atiku and Obi’s delayed membership. Nothing has changed; both of them are very much with the coalition,” he told Sunday PUNCH. “Anyone telling you otherwise is misinformed.” The coalition, unveiled in Abuja on March 20, was established to form a credible opposition front ahead of 2027. The initiative gained national attention following a July 1 meeting where Atiku, Obi, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, ex-Rivers Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and other key figures endorsed the ADC as the coalition’s political platform. The party is currently under the interim leadership of Senator David Mark and former Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary. However, several insiders say the lack of formal membership from Atiku and Obi has discouraged other potential entrants and hampered the coalition’s credibility. “Members of the party, especially the National Working Committee, are seriously concerned,” a senior coalition official told Sunday PUNCH. “Atiku left the PDP over a month ago but has yet to officially join us. Obi also hasn’t made a move. Their absence is stalling the momentum and discouraging others from coming onboard.” The official added that while coalition leaders remain committed to challenging the APC in 2027, doubts persist over whether the current structure is strong enough to mount a serious challenge without firm commitments from major players. “If these figures had joined, the ADC would already have gathered significant momentum. Their presence would have brought resources, credibility, and mass followership. For now, things remain uncertain.” Another top coalition figure linked some of the party’s setbacks to political interference and unresolved legal issues. “INEC’s delay in recognising David Mark’s leadership and ongoing court cases—some believed to be government-sponsored—are slowing us down,” the source alleged. Despite the turbulence, he expressed confidence in the party’s long-term viability. “The ADC remains a formidable platform. Nigerians are gradually accepting it as a credible alternative to the APC. We believe Atiku and Obi will join fully in due time.” In response to enquiries, Atiku’s media adviser, Paul Ibe, affirmed the former Vice President’s commitment to the coalition and confirmed that steps toward formal registration with the ADC are underway. “Atiku is not contemplating leaving the coalition,” Ibe said. “The party is being established across the country, and registration is ongoing. His membership is a process, and it’s in motion. He remains committed to the coalition’s vision to rescue Nigeria.” Efforts to reach Peter Obi’s associate and Obidient Movement coordinator, Yunusa Tanko, for comment were unsuccessful as calls to his phone went unanswered. As the opposition navigates these internal hurdles, political analysts warn that time is running short for the coalition to solidify its base, unify its ranks, and present a cohesive challenge in 2027.

Atiku’s Exit Won’t Affect PDP Says Governor Makinde

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has dismissed concerns that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) would negatively impact the party’s chances ahead of the 2027 elections. Speaking to journalists in Akure on Wednesday after delivering a keynote address at the colloquium marking the 10th Coronation Anniversary of the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, Makinde described the PDP as an institution where “people have the freedom to come in and go out.” “Atiku’s resignation will not make any dent on the PDP as a party,” he stated. The governor also dismissed the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a threat, calling it just another political platform among many others. Makinde highlighted the importance of traditional institutions in governance, describing them as “enduring pillars of identity and cohesion.” He urged governments to accord them due recognition, noting that Oyo State has integrated traditional leaders into its governance framework to positive effect. The Deji of Akure commended Makinde for his support of traditional institutions and reiterated their role in fostering unity and development.

ADC Coalition: Obidients Free to Support Obi, I Have Right to Back Atiku — Dele Momodu

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

ABUJA — Media mogul and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Chief Dele Momodu, has reaffirmed his support for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as his preferred presidential candidate under the emerging opposition coalition. Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, Momodu emphasized that his support for Atiku does not invalidate the loyalty of Obidients — supporters of Peter Obi — or any other aspirants within the ADC framework. “My best choice is Atiku, and that’s what I expect Obidients to say about Obi, and Amaechi’s supporters to say about Amaechi,” Momodu said. “This is a game of numbers, and the north remains the most aggrieved region today.” He accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of pushing for a southern candidate to emerge within the opposition, claiming it stems from fear of Atiku’s political strength. “They are afraid of Atiku. That’s why they keep promoting campaigns of calumny against him,” he alleged. Momodu stressed the importance of democracy within the coalition, calling on all aspirants to submit themselves to the party’s primary process. “I have never told anyone not to support Obi. He is a very good friend of mine,” he said. “But let everyone go to the field. Let Obidients campaign for Obi, Atikulates for Atiku, and Amaechi’s supporters for him. Let the people decide.” Reiterating his admiration for Atiku, Momodu said the former vice president remains, in his view, a strong example of the leadership Nigeria needs, especially as the ADC prepares to challenge the APC in the 2027 elections.

2027 Showdown: Tinubu Camp Dismisses Atiku-Led ADC Coalition as Dead on Arrival

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago03 mins

The political atmosphere ahead of the 2027 general election is heating up as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Senate President David Mark spearhead a new coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), aiming to unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. David Mark was announced earlier this week as the interim national chairman of the ADC, signaling the group’s readiness to rally opposition forces under a common platform. Reacting to the development, loyalists within the All Progressives Congress (APC) dismissed the coalition’s relevance, describing it as “dead on arrival.” According to party insiders, the opposition’s latest move is a recycled attempt lacking cohesion and credible leadership. They argue that the coalition is made up of familiar faces who have failed to present a viable alternative to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Supporters of the opposition, however, maintain that the country is in desperate need of new direction. The ADC-led coalition, they say, represents a fresh opportunity to build a broad-based, inclusive movement capable of addressing insecurity, economic hardship, and what they describe as increasing authoritarianism under the APC government. They also highlight growing discontent among Nigerians as a rallying point for regime change. Despite internal wrangling in the PDP and defections across major parties, the opposition coalition appears determined to capitalize on widespread dissatisfaction. Yet, questions remain about whether the coalition can maintain unity and translate its ambitions into electoral success. With the 2027 race beginning to take shape, the battle lines are being drawn for what could be one of Nigeria’s most fiercely contested elections since 1999.

Dangote Refinery Targets 100% Nigerian Crude Supply by End of 2025 — Bloomberg

Tinubu, Atiku, Otedola Felicitate Dangote at 68

Fola Badmus5 months ago5 months ago02 mins

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm birthday wishes to Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man and renowned industrialist, describing him as a true icon of African enterprise and innovation. In a statement issued by the Presidency, Tinubu praised Dangote’s unwavering commitment to industrialization, job creation, and economic growth across the continent. He lauded the business mogul for his contributions to Nigeria’s development and for being a source of pride to the nation. Dangote, the founder of Dangote Group, has built one of Africa’s largest conglomerates, with investments spanning cement, sugar, salt, and most recently, oil refining with the launch of the Dangote Refinery—Africa’s biggest. President Tinubu wished him continued health, strength, and success, while encouraging young African entrepreneurs to draw inspiration from Dangote’s journey of resilience, vision, and excellence. In a similar vein, former Vice President Alhaji Abubarkar Atiku congratulated the Industrialist. “I extended I extend my warmest congratulations to Aliko Dangote on the occasion of his 68th birthday. Alhaji Dangote remains a visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist whose transformative investments continue to reshape Nigeria’s industrial landscape. “On behalf of my family, I wish him a joyful birthday and many more impactful years dedicated to the service of our nation and humanity. Congratulations,” he stated. Dangote’s billionaire friend, Mr. Femi Otedola also joined millions other well wishers to congratulate him. “Happy Birthday to my Dear Brother Aliko Dangote. The greatest entrepreneur to have come out of Africa…”

Atiku Criticizes Tinubu Government Over Failing Security and Ongoing Mass Killings

Atiku Criticizes Tinubu Over Insecurity, Mass Killings

Fola Badmus6 months ago6 months ago04 mins

Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has condemned President Bola Tinubu’s security policies, stating that the country’s security situation has deteriorated to the point where mass killings have become a tragic norm. He described the failures of the current administration’s security architecture as an ongoing nationwide crisis. Atiku expressed concern that the severity of the nation’s security problems has escalated to such an extent that many killings no longer make the headlines, emphasizing the grim reality of frequent bloodshed under the Tinubu-led government. “The failure of Bola Tinubu’s security architecture has become an endemic issue across the country, with repeated killings, many of which go unreported,” he said. He added that Nigerians are now forced to accept these atrocities as part of daily life, leading to widespread fear and despair. Atiku also extended his condolences to the victims of recent attacks, particularly those in Plateau State, where numerous lives have been lost in violent incidents. “Nigerians are now desensitized to the heartbreaking news of senseless killings, and I offer my deepest condolences to the grieving communities in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, and the families affected,” he said. In a statement released on Friday, Atiku criticized the federal government’s lack of action, warning that without swift and decisive intervention, the country would continue its descent into lawlessness. He urged the Tinubu administration to overhaul the security architecture to better protect Nigerian citizens. “I call on the Tinubu-led federal government to urgently reconfigure its security framework to safeguard the lives and properties of our people,” he stated. SaharaReporters earlier reported that at least 10 people were killed in a series of violent attacks on Wednesday in five communities within Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State. These attacks occurred just six days after a similar attack in Ruwi community during a wake-keeping ceremony, which resulted in 10 deaths and several injuries. A statement from the Bokkos Cultural Development Council (BCDC), signed by its chairman, Farmasum Fuddang, condemned the ongoing violence, highlighting the severe threat posed by terrorists trying to seize land and impose a caliphate. “In just one week, we have lost more than twenty members of our community due to these marauding terrorists, who are systematically engaging in ethnic and religious cleansing of five villages,” Fuddang stated.