An internal conflict is brewing within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a faction of the party has publicly opposed its adoption by a coalition led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
The coalition, which includes prominent figures like ex-Senate President David Mark and former governors Nasir El-Rufai and Rauf Aregbesola, is seeking to utilize the ADC as a political platform to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
The dissenting faction, known as the "Concerned Stakeholders of the ADC," has expressed dissatisfaction with the adoption process, citing a lack of transparency and consultation. According to Musa Isa Matara, the faction's national publicity secretary, state executives, youth and women leaders, and ward coordinators were not involved in the decision-making process.
In their statement, the faction criticized the move as an elitist attempt to hijack the party, asserting that the ADC is not a "private coalition platform" for political merchants or elite dealmakers. They emphasized that the party belongs to its members and called for the preservation of its sovereignty and democratic principles.
This opposition is coming in the wake of a high-profile meeting in Abuja attended by Atiku Abubakar, David Mark, and other notable politicians, where the ADC was adopted as the coalition's platform. During the meeting, David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola were appointed as interim national chairman and secretary, respectively.
The faction also highlighted ongoing legal challenges the ADC faces from the 2023 elections, arguing that these unresolved issues further undermine the legitimacy of the coalition's adoption. They have called for a legitimate, constitutionally-backed national convention to address leadership changes and ensure the party's integrity.
Meanwhile, ADC spokesperson Nkem Ukandu has dismissed claims of internal division, maintaining that the party remains united.
