The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has postponed its presidential screening exercise amid unresolved negotiations among leading aspirants ahead of the party’s 2027 primary election.
The screening, initially scheduled for Monday, was moved to Wednesday following continued disagreements among the three major contenders seeking the party’s presidential ticket. The development marks the second postponement within days, after earlier security concerns forced the exercise to be shifted from the weekend to May 18.
Party officials have yet to announce a final resolution to the ongoing negotiations, even as the ADC prepares for its presidential primary slated for May 25 and a broader national convention expected on May 27.
Sources within the party indicated that tensions remain high among the aspirants, each of whom reportedly paid up to ₦100 million for nomination forms, reflecting the growing stakes surrounding the contest.
Among the leading figures in the race is banker and businessman Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, who has reportedly positioned himself as a reform-oriented alternative to what he described as “recycled politics” dominating Nigeria’s political space.
Former Rivers State governor and ex-Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi is also said to be involved in the negotiations. Reports suggest that Amaechi recently walked out of one of the meetings following disagreements over proposed arrangements and consensus discussions.
Meanwhile, allies of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar are reportedly resisting any compromise they consider unfavorable to their camp, further complicating attempts to reach a consensus candidate.
The deadlock has fueled concerns among party members and political observers that the ADC could face internal divisions, defections, or financial strain if the crisis remains unresolved before the primaries.
Political analysts say the situation highlights the growing challenge opposition parties face in balancing coalition-building efforts with the personal ambitions of heavyweight political figures ahead of the 2027 elections.
The ADC has increasingly attracted national attention amid ongoing political realignments and discussions around opposition unity. However, analysts warn that prolonged uncertainty over candidate selection could weaken the party’s momentum at a critical stage.
Party stakeholders are reportedly continuing behind-the-scenes consultations in hopes of avoiding a fractured primary process that could damage the ADC’s public image and electoral prospects.
As the postponed screening date approaches, attention remains focused on whether party leaders can broker a compromise capable of preserving unity within one of Nigeria’s increasingly watched opposition platforms.
