Fresh concerns are emerging within the (ADC) following allegations that the party’s internal support structure is increasingly dominated by groups aligned with former Vice President , while networks sympathetic to are reportedly being sidelined.
Multiple party stakeholders and observers claim that the ADC’s officially recognized support groups list has become heavily populated with organizations openly projecting Atiku’s 2027 presidential ambition. In contrast, some Obi-leaning coalitions allege they have either been excluded, deregistered, or denied formal recognition within the party’s mobilization framework.
Critics argue that the pattern raises questions about whether the ADC is evolving into a broad-based coalition platform or gradually being structured to serve a pre-determined presidential project. They contend that if internal processes disproportionately favor one aspirant’s loyalists, it risks undermining the party’s credibility as a neutral political vehicle for coalition politics.
Those raising concerns point to three possible explanations:
First, strategic infiltration: Atiku-aligned operatives may simply be more organized, moving early to formalize and register support blocs within party structures.
Second, leadership bias: Sections of the party hierarchy may be perceived as more receptive to one political current over another, intentionally or otherwise.
Third, structural capture: There are fears that what began as coalition-building could gradually morph into a consolidation strategy aimed at positioning the party primarily for one individual’s presidential bid.
However, ADC loyalists who reject these allegations insist that the party remains open to all aspirants and that recognition of support groups is based on compliance with internal guidelines rather than candidate preference. They argue that any group that feels excluded should pursue redress through established party mechanisms.
The unfolding development highlights a broader challenge within opposition politics: balancing coalition expansion with internal fairness. As 2027 calculations intensify, the ability of ADC to maintain neutrality, transparency, and equitable space for all tendencies may determine whether it emerges as a unifying platform—or becomes entangled in factional distrust.
Observers say how the party manages this perception battle could significantly shape opposition realignments in the months ahead.
