Fresh political maneuvering is underway within Nigeria’s opposition as Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso ramp up efforts to secure a joint presidential ticket under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 elections.
Party insiders revealed that both leaders are actively engaging northern stakeholders to support a proposed one-term presidency arrangement, aimed at strengthening southern representation while consolidating nationwide backing. The strategy is also seen as a direct challenge to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who remains a strong contender within the party.
According to sources, the Obi-Kwankwaso alliance has been promoting the idea of rotational fairness, urging northern leaders to support a southern candidate to complete what they describe as an eight-year power balance. Obi is reportedly being positioned as a one-term candidate, a proposal intended to reassure northern political blocs and secure broader acceptance.
The consultations have intensified in recent weeks, with Kwankwaso’s camp reportedly holding meetings with key northern figures, including traditional rulers and influential stakeholders. Some insiders claim that these efforts have begun to shift allegiances within the ADC, with certain northern leaders reconsidering earlier support for Atiku.
The political realignment gained further momentum with the launch of the Obi–Kwankwaso Movement, designed to merge the support bases of both leaders and strengthen their chances in the party’s primaries.
Despite these developments, Atiku’s camp remains confident. Allies of the former vice president argue that he retains a strong political structure within the ADC and continues to enjoy widespread support, particularly in the North. They describe the ongoing alliance-building as part of normal political strategy, emphasizing that all aspirants are free to campaign within the party.
Analysts note that the ADC is currently navigating internal leadership disputes while awaiting a Supreme Court ruling, adding another layer of complexity to the party’s preparations for the 2027 elections. Nonetheless, aspirants have continued consultations and mobilization efforts across the country.
A senior party figure acknowledged growing tensions within the ADC, especially among southern aspirants seeking alliances with northern power brokers. However, he suggested that the final outcome may depend on consensus-building efforts or, failing that, competitive primaries.
The National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, Bolaji Abdullahi, reiterated that consultations and political alignments are part of democratic processes, adding that the party would work towards unity and may consider consensus in selecting its candidate.
With multiple heavyweight contenders and shifting alliances, the race for the ADC presidential ticket is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched political contests ahead of the 2027 general elections.
