Why Atiku, Obi, El-Rufai Are Still In PDP, LP, SDP – ADC Spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi Clarifies Delay in Full Membership

 

ADC Explains Delay in Atiku, Peter Obi, El Rufai's Full Transition Amid Growing Coalition

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has shed light on the political dynamics behind the delayed official defection of prominent political figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Nasir El Rufai to the party. Bolaji Abdullahi, the party's spokesperson, offered insight during an appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show, clarifying the situation for the public and political analysts watching closely.

Questions have lingered about why these well-known politicians remain publicly aligned with their current political platforms despite increasing speculations and reports linking them to the ADC’s broader coalition effort. Abdullahi’s statement has now provided clarity on what he describes as a matter of strategy and timing, rather than reluctance or division.

According to Abdullahi, several of these leaders are currently engaged in electoral contests scheduled before the 2027 general elections. This engagement necessitates their continued presence within their current parties, particularly where nomination forms have already been purchased or candidate processes are already underway.

Citing an example, Abdullahi mentioned former Kaduna State governor Nasir El Rufai and members of his political group, who are presently involved with the Social Democratic Party (SDP). He confirmed that they had already purchased nomination forms on the SDP platform for specific elections, making it only reasonable that they remain aligned with the party until those contests are concluded.

"You have elections taking place before 2027 that some of these key players are involved in," Abdullahi stated. "Mallam Nasir El Rufai and his group are currently active in that context. They have bought forms on the SDP platform, so it is only sensible to allow them to complete their engagements there. After that, they will fully align with the ADC.”

He emphasized that the decision is grounded in pragmatism. Expecting individuals to abandon elections midway, particularly where significant resources and structures have already been invested, would be impractical and politically counterproductive.

The ADC, which has been positioning itself as a credible alternative to the dominant political forces in Nigeria, is spearheading what it refers to as a coalition to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy. Abdullahi made it clear that this coalition is meant to stand as a bulwark against what he sees as a creeping trend toward a one-party state.

“The broader coalition is very clear in its objective,” he said. “Every person who believes in a truly democratic Nigeria, and rejects the idea of reducing the nation to a one-party civilian dictatorship, is welcome in the ADC. Whether they are currently elsewhere for electoral reasons is secondary to the unity of purpose we are building.”

He also responded to critics who question the integrity or feasibility of the coalition due to the seeming delay in full membership by these prominent figures. Abdullahi warned against focusing solely on superficial signs while ignoring the underlying strategy that drives the coalition’s decisions.

“If anyone has a problem with that, then perhaps they are comfortable watching Nigeria slip into a one-party system. That is a dangerous path, and we are determined to resist it,” he asserted.

While acknowledging the process will not be without its challenges, Abdullahi expressed confidence in the coalition’s ability to stay focused. According to him, political transitions of this nature are rarely smooth but can succeed with patience, commitment, and strategic clarity.

Observers have noted that the emergence of a unified opposition could reshape Nigeria’s political landscape. The potential convergence of Atiku, Obi, and El Rufai within the ADC could represent a significant reconfiguration of political forces ahead of 2027. Their differing ideological backgrounds, political experiences, and support bases, if properly integrated, could present a formidable challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Atiku Abubakar, a former Vice President and two-time presidential candidate, has remained with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) while Peter Obi continues to lead the Labour Party’s rising progressive bloc. El Rufai, a strategic political actor with a strong base in northern Nigeria, has long been viewed as a kingmaker in various political coalitions. The idea that these figures could eventually find a common platform under the ADC umbrella is already generating considerable interest.

Within political circles, speculation is growing over whether this evolving coalition could translate into an electoral alliance or even a merger ahead of the 2027 elections. Questions are being raised about how such a bloc might resolve internal power-sharing dynamics and choose a consensus candidate if the coalition matures.

For now, the ADC seems committed to playing the long game. Rather than rushing declarations or forcing premature alignments, the party is allowing political figures the space to fulfill existing commitments while building a broader vision.

Abdullahi’s remarks serve not only to clarify the current situation but also to assert that political transformation takes time and planning. The ADC’s willingness to accommodate transitional arrangements signals a level of maturity and strategic patience that could prove crucial in the years ahead.

As Nigeria’s political environment continues to evolve, attention will remain fixed on whether this coalition delivers realignment or simply another wave of political repositioning. What is certain, however, is that the ADC is intent on challenging the status quo and is actively laying the groundwork for a more competitive political arena.