Battle for ADC Ticket Begins as Atiku, Amaechi Clash Today

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is set for a major political showdown as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and economist Mohammed Hayatu-Deen battle for the party’s presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general election.

The presidential primary, scheduled to hold today, represents one of the most significant moments in the party’s ongoing efforts to position itself as a major opposition force ahead of the next election cycle.

The contest follows the successful screening of the three aspirants by a panel chaired by former Cross River State Governor Liyel Imoke.

The ADC leadership, under interim National Chairman David Mark, opted for an open contest after attempts to build consensus among leading aspirants failed to produce an agreement.

Party officials said the decision reflected the ADC’s commitment to internal democracy, transparency and credible leadership selection.

To supervise the primary election, the party constituted a presidential election committee chaired by former Kwara State Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, while Professor Yisa Gana serves as secretary.

National Publicity Secretary of the party, Bolaji Abdullahi, disclosed that electoral officers and logistics teams had already been deployed ahead of the exercise.

He expressed confidence that the primary would be free, fair and peaceful, noting that all three aspirants had pledged to accept the outcome of the process.

Abdullahi described the primary as a critical test of the ADC’s democratic values and its determination to present Nigerians with a credible political alternative.

According to him, the conduct of party members, delegates and aspirants during the exercise would shape public perception of the ADC ahead of the 2027 elections “The ADC remains the only truly democratic party in Nigeria because its presidential candidate will emerge through an open primary process,” he said.

The party urged supporters and delegates to maintain discipline, avoid violence and prioritise unity throughout the exercise.

Abdullahi noted that disagreements were normal in democratic contests but stressed that the broader objective of rebuilding public confidence in leadership must remain paramount. “At the end of this primary, there will be no winners or losers within the ADC family. The ultimate objective is to emerge stronger, more united and fully prepared to offer Nigerians the competent and credible leadership they deserve,” he added.

Political observers are closely watching the primary, particularly because of the political weight and national influence of Atiku and Amaechi within opposition politics.

The outcome is expected to significantly shape the political landscape ahead of the 2027 presidential election.