By Muhammad B. Muhammad
In a significant move towards consolidating opposition forces ahead of the 2027 presidential election, top presidential aspirants under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, and former Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi have agreed in principle to sign a unity pact.
The agreement, expected to be formalized soon, will bind all aspirants to support whoever emerges as the party’s presidential flagbearer, provided the selection process is deemed transparent.
Disclosing this in an exclusive interview with LEADERSHIP Weekend, Amaechi explained, “What we agreed in principle and I must emphasize this is that whoever emerges from a transparent primary will enjoy the full support of all others. But we must sit down to define what we mean by ‘transparent,’ as the term can be manipulated.”
The coalition move comes amid jostling for the party’s ticket and heightened political activities. The ADC’s interim national chairman, Senator David Mark, had earlier announced that the party would not endorse any preferred candidate, pledging to uphold absolute transparency under his leadership.
Atiku recently reaffirmed his 2027 ambition during a meeting with Gombe stakeholders but dismissed reports of a deal to step down for a southern candidate. Similarly, Obi has reiterated his presidential interest and ruled out accepting a vice-presidential slot.
Meanwhile, ADC’s national publicity secretary, Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, said he was unaware of any formal agreement but affirmed the party’s commitment to a level playing field for all aspirants.
The party’s internal dynamics have been further stirred by claims from former ADC presidential candidate Dumebi Kachikwu, who alleged a northern candidate—particularly Atiku—is being favored. This has reignited debate on zoning and regional equity, key themes that also shaped the 2023 presidential elections.
As preparations intensify, the proposed pact could redefine alliances and shape the opposition’s strategy heading into 2027.
Sahel Reporters News
