The African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Tuesday dismissed claims that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s membership registration in Adamawa was invalid, insisting there is no controversy surrounding his formal entry into the party.

 

The statement, issued by ADC National Publicity Secretary Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi in Abuja, came in response to reports suggesting that Abubakar had not registered with a duly constituted ward executive in Jada 1 Ward, Jada Local Government Area of Adamawa.

 

Christopher Okechukwu, the Director of Media and Public Affairs quoted in those reports, had claimed that the registration process did not involve officials recognised by the party’s national headquarters. He argued that the registration lacked legitimacy and urged Abubakar to complete it with authentic party executives.

 

Abdullahi, however, rejected these claims, describing the person quoted as non-existent within ADC’s records or leadership structures. He warned that amplifying such unauthorised statements misleads the public and undermines confidence in party-backed institutions.

 

“The person quoted in that report is unknown to the ADC at any level and does not exist within our structures, registers, or leadership organs. The national leadership of the ADC is not in any doubt, and no one authorised to speak for the party has said anything close to what was reported,” Abdullahi said.

 

He further cautioned that attempts to weaken opposition parties threaten multiparty democracy and urged the media not to play a role in promoting unverified claims that could push Nigeria towards a one-party state.

 

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Youths for Atiku (NYFA) hailed Abubakar’s registration as a major boost for the ADC, signalling potential political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

 

NYFA Director-General, Dare Dada, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that Abubakar’s entry “marks a new political dimension within Nigeria’s landscape” and would likely encourage other prominent politicians to join the party.

 

“Many politicians who were unsure of ADC’s direction will now make up their minds quickly. With Atiku officially on board, the ADC will emerge as a credible opposition platform ahead of 2027. This is a major boost for Nigerians hoping for a strong alternative to the ruling party,” Dada said.

 

He described the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a party weakened by internal crises and declining relevance despite having produced three Presidents, creating space for the ADC to gain momentum.

 

Dada also revealed that more than seven serving governors are reportedly in talks with the party, while over 15 former governors and 19 former deputy governors have expressed support for ADC. He added that NYFA structures in all 36 states and the FCT have been integrated into the ADC to strengthen grassroots mobilisation nationwide.

 

“The growing alignment signals a possible major shift in Nigeria’s opposition dynamics and offers a stronger platform to challenge the ruling party,” he said.