Winds of Change: PDP’s Rivers Liberation Movement (RLM) Collapses Structure into ADC Coalition Reshaping 2027 Race

 

The political atmosphere in Nigeria is undergoing a significant shift as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) emerges as the unifying platform for a new and fast-growing coalition of opposition groups. The movement, which aims to challenge the dominance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections, is drawing support from across party lines, states and influential political figures.

In Rivers State, the Rivers Liberation Movement (RLM), a pressure group within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), officially merged with the ADC-led coalition. Dr. Leloonu Nwibubasa, who leads the RLM, addressed journalists in Port Harcourt and described the decision as a necessary response to what he termed the leadership void in the state. Nwibubasa emphasized the need for Rivers people to free themselves from years of what he called “conscienceless governance” and pledged mass mobilization ahead of 2027.

He also acknowledged the support of notable political figures such as Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, Dr. Abiye Sekibo, Senator Lee Maeba, Prince Uche Secondus and Sir Celestine Omehia, all of whom he said have aligned with the coalition’s vision for political transformation.

The momentum extends northward, with the Adamawa State chapter of the ADC reaffirming the stability and unity of its current leadership. During a press briefing in Yola, state chairman Mr. Shehu Yohanna dismissed speculations of internal conflict, asserting that no resignations or structural changes had taken place. He welcomed members of the Nigeria National Opposition Coalition, praising their decision to adopt the ADC as evidence of the party’s growing national relevance.

In the South East, Chief JoeMartin Uzodike, a former commissioner for information in Anambra State, hailed the coalition as a “welcome development” that would bolster democratic engagement. He criticized one-party dominance and argued that an effective opposition remains a critical pillar of governance. According to Uzodike, the rise of the ADC as a serious political force could inject new energy into the Anambra governorship race slated for November 8.

Across Kogi State, enthusiasm for the coalition is equally palpable. Comrade Gowon Yakubu, a senior ADC member, reiterated the party’s central role in receiving and integrating coalition members. He made it clear that the ADC would not stand on the sidelines of a movement that is actively utilizing its platform.

Borno State has witnessed a remarkable political realignment as key members of the PDP and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) switch allegiance to the ADC-led coalition. Among them are prominent figures such as Alhaji Idris Durkwa, a former APC governorship candidate who later joined the PDP, and Hon. Atom Magira, who contested under the NNPP in both 2019 and 2023. Umaru Nasko, a former gubernatorial candidate, is also now linked with the new alliance.

Sources indicate that even some leaders from the ruling APC are involved in closed-door discussions with coalition leaders in Borno. A wave of resignation letters from PDP and NNPP ward executives underscores the growing shift towards the ADC platform.

In Enugu State, the Progressives Group led by Dr. Ben Nwoye, the former APC chairman, expressed alignment with the ADC-led coalition, although a formal merger has yet to be announced. The group commended the ADC for serving as a viable alternative and said it would play a pivotal role in expanding democratic space in Nigeria.

The situation in Sokoto State hints at a looming political shakeup. A large faction of the PDP is reportedly waiting for the nod from former Governor Senator Aminu Tambuwal to make their move to the new coalition. Internal sources suggest the PDP in Sokoto is a shell of its former self, weakened by internal strife and electoral defeats.

Some dissenting voices have, however, downplayed the impact of the coalition. Sir Jude Idimogu, a former Lagos lawmaker and current APC figure, argued that the ruling party remains too entrenched to be toppled. He acknowledged the right of any group to organize politically but maintained that President Bola Tinubu’s re-election prospects remain strong.

Delta State’s Bureau for Communications and Orientation echoed similar sentiments. Barr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe insisted that the coalition posed no threat to the state’s political stability, expressing confidence in both Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s chances in 2027.

Ekiti State’s chapter of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) remains non-committal. According to the state chairman, Mr. Bamkole Ayodele, the group is awaiting a clear directive from its national leadership before taking a position.

On the other hand, the NNPP’s leadership in the state flatly rejected any notion of joining the coalition. Chief Ade Ayeni made the position clear, emphasizing the party’s independence and unwillingness to merge.

Zamfara State has seen a steady influx of defectors into the ADC from across party lines. The state party chairman, Kabiru Garba Gusau, confirmed that within 48 hours, the party welcomed over 500 new members from the APC, PDP and APGA. Gusau projected the ADC as the leading contender for both federal and state power come 2027.

As Nigeria’s political chessboard continues to evolve, the ADC’s transformation from a modest party into a rallying point for opposition politics has created fresh excitement. Whether this momentum can be sustained and translated into electoral success remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the battle for 2027 has already begun.