A fresh chapter has opened in the leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) after a faction of the party announced Dumebi Kachikwu as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.
The faction, which held a national convention in Abuja on May 25, 2026, reportedly dissolved the interim leadership structure headed by David Mark and adopted Kachikwu as its presidential flagbearer through a voice vote.
The move has further complicated an already contentious situation within the party.
In a parallel development, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar emerged as the presidential candidate from a separate ADC primary conducted days later. Atiku’s camp announced that he secured more than 1.8 million votes in the exercise, defeating other aspirants and positioning himself as the party’s standard-bearer for 2027.
Both camps now claim legitimacy.
Kachikwu’s supporters argue that their convention followed due process and maintain that court rulings and party structures support their position. They have also challenged the authority of the David Mark-led leadership arrangement.
On the other hand, Atiku’s supporters insist that the primary which produced him as candidate was conducted under the recognized party leadership and reflects the will of ADC members across the country.
The competing claims have created uncertainty over who will ultimately be recognized as the party’s authentic presidential candidate.
Political analysts note that the dispute could have significant implications for the ADC’s ability to function as a major opposition platform ahead of the 2027 elections. Prolonged litigation and leadership battles could weaken the party’s electoral prospects and complicate campaign preparations.
The controversy also places greater attention on the roles of the courts and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which may eventually be required to determine which faction has legal standing in relation to party leadership and candidate nomination.
Observers say the situation underscores the broader challenge facing several Nigerian political parties, where internal disputes, factional rivalries, and leadership contests have increasingly shaped pre-election politics.
With electoral deadlines approaching and campaign activities gradually intensifying, pressure is mounting on the rival ADC factions to either reconcile or secure legal clarity regarding the party’s leadership and presidential ticket.
Until that happens, the ADC remains divided between two camps, each insisting it represents the legitimate voice of the party heading into the 2027 presidential race.
