Former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has declared that he will fully support whoever emerges as the presidential flagbearer of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the party’s 2026 primary election — even if it is not him.

 

Atiku, who is a leading figure in the emerging opposition coalition, made the statement  during a welcome ceremony for high-profile defectors from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP) into the ADC. The event was held in Lagos State, with senior party figures, including ADC National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola, Senator Kolawole Ogunwale, and State Chairman George Ashiru, in attendance.

 

Represented at the event by Professor Ola Olateju of Achievers University, Atiku said the ADC presidential ticket would be decided through a transparent, democratic process, assuring all aspirants of a level playing field.

 

“It is not a thing we can predetermine. Whoever emerges through free and fair contests, we are all going to support,” Atiku stated.

 

He reiterated that the coalition’s mission is not about personal ambition but about rescuing and rebuilding Nigeria through credible leadership.

 

“We are not imposing anyone on the people. Whoever wins the party’s primary will be representative of all Nigerians,” he added.

 

The development comes as ADC continues to position itself as a viable third force, welcoming several influential political figures ahead of the 2027 general elections. Among the frontrunners for the ADC ticket are Atiku himself, former Rivers State Governor Chibuike Amaechi, and former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi.

 

The entry of high-level defectors has boosted ADC’s profile in recent months, with the party promoting itself as a movement for national renewal and democratic inclusion.

 

Political analysts say Atiku’s stance signals a maturing coalition strategy and a potential shift in Nigeria’s political landscape, especially if the party can maintain internal cohesion and conduct credible primaries.

 

With growing public disillusionment over the ruling APC’s performance, the ADC coalition appears to be gaining traction as a serious contender for power in 2027.