ADC Presidential Hopefuls To Sign Unity Pact to Support Primary Winner as Party Pushes for Transparency in 2027 Bid

 

Amid rising political tensions and growing public interest in the 2027 presidential elections, leading aspirants under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) are taking steps to present a united front. Sources close to the coalition revealed that the party’s presidential hopefuls have reached a consensus, in principle, to support whichever candidate emerges victorious through a transparent primary process.

The decision comes at a crucial time for the party, which is positioning itself as a credible alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). With internal power dynamics and regional considerations dominating conversations around presidential zoning, the ADC is treading carefully to avoid internal fractures.

Rotimi Amaechi, a former Minister of Transportation and prominent figure within the coalition, disclosed in an exclusive chat with LEADERSHIP Weekend that all contenders are expected to endorse the eventual winner of the party’s primary election. However, Amaechi emphasized that this agreement hinges on a mutual understanding of what constitutes a transparent selection process.

He explained that there must be clarity and consensus on the definition of transparency in the primary to prevent manipulation and discontent. “What we agreed in principle, and I must say there is a need to lay the cards on the table, is that whoever emerges from a transparent primary will be supported by everyone,” Amaechi said. “But first, we need to sit down and define what we mean by transparent because it’s easy for someone to hijack the process and still call it transparent.”

Senator David Mark, the interim national chairman of the ADC, had earlier stated during a press briefing on July 8 that the party holds no bias toward any aspirant. He assured that his leadership would oversee an open and fair process. His remarks were seen as a response to reports of internal lobbying and maneuvering among top contenders.

As the 2027 race begins to take shape, former vice president Atiku Abubakar and ex-Labour Party flag bearer Peter Obi have both declared interest in another shot at the presidency. Atiku, addressing stakeholders from Gombe State at his residence in Abuja, hinted at his ambition, while also denying reports that he had been asked to step aside in favor of a southern candidate.

Peter Obi, during a recent media interview, reiterated his commitment to contesting the presidential seat, insisting that he has not engaged in any conversation about playing a secondary role in the 2027 elections. The former Anambra governor's declaration was met with enthusiasm among his supporters, many of whom still consider him a front-runner for progressive governance.

Meanwhile, loyalists of both Atiku and Obi have rekindled their online advocacy, reminding the public of the pair’s 2019 alliance which saw them run on a joint ticket. The renewed energy from their camps signals a likely showdown in the ADC primary if both men remain in the race.

Adding to the mix is Amaechi, who after a narrow loss to Bola Tinubu in the 2023 APC primaries, is now aligning with the ADC to pursue his presidential aspirations. His experience and political reach, especially in the South-South region, make him a notable contender.

Former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai has opted out of the race, declaring in a media interview that he harbors no political ambitions at this time. However, former ADC presidential candidate Dumebi Kachikwu has stirred internal debates by alleging that the party leadership plans to zone the ticket to the North, possibly favoring Atiku.

Kachikwu’s claim underscores the unresolved question of zoning, a contentious issue that shaped the 2023 elections. Many political observers believe the North-South rotation of power will remain a flashpoint in determining the party's candidate for 2027.

While discussions around unity and fair play continue, the ADC's National Publicity Secretary, Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, expressed surprise at the reported pact among aspirants. “I am not aware of any such agreement,” he said. “What the party is committed to is that it will provide a level playing ground for everyone and be transparent in its dealings.”

As the ADC prepares to finalize its internal processes and build momentum ahead of 2027, the emphasis on transparency, unity, and fair competition could determine how seriously it is taken on the national stage. Whether the party can navigate the ambitions of political heavyweights while maintaining credibility and cohesion remains to be seen.