In a new twist to the imbroglio in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over leadership legitimacy, former Nigeria’s Vice President Atiku Abubakar has dismissed claims that time constraints resulting from legal disputes would derail his political ambitions for the 2027 general elections.
The crisis within ADC, a prominent opposition party in Nigeria, reached a critical stage in 2026, characterized by leadership disputes, court battles, and the suspension of recognition by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The crisis stems from a 2025 takeover of the party by a new coalition of established politicians intending to use the platform for the 2027 general elections.
Addressing the ongoing leadership crisis within his party, ADC, Atiku rejected the notion that the court case regarding the party’s National Working Committee would leave his camp with insufficient time to prepare.
Atiku stated, “Observers are not lawyers,” and insisted that the legal matter involving the David Mark-led faction would be resolved by the trial court promptly.
He expressed optimism that the leadership dispute would be settled before the party begins its congresses at the ward level.
He ruled out defecting to another party, affirming that his commitment to the ADC remains “unshaken” despite current internal tensions.
Previously, Atiku had urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reconsider the 2027 election dates, as, according to him, overlapped with Ramadan, which he argued could negatively impact voter participation.
While he remains focused on his own bid, Atiku clarified in earlier interviews that he would only consider stepping aside if a “younger, vibrant, and widely accepted candidate” were to emerge through a competitive primary process.
