Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has announced that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) will conduct direct primaries to select its presidential candidate for the 2027 elections if a consensus candidate cannot be agreed upon within the coalition. Speaking on Arise TV on Wednesday evening, Atiku detailed the coalition’s strategy for choosing its flagbearer. He stated, “The first option will be to work out a consensus. If that doesn’t work out, then we will go for primary elections.”
When asked if he would step aside should he fail to secure the party’s nomination, Atiku reframed the question, emphasizing support over withdrawal. “It is not the issue of stepping aside, but will I support?” he responded. “I will support anybody that emerges.” He expressed confidence that the coalition might avoid primaries altogether, citing the political maturity of its members. “I don’t think we will get there because we are all matured politicians,” Atiku remarked. “We have all agreed that this is the way to save democracy in this country.”
Atiku’s comments come amid ongoing discussions about opposition unity as the 2027 elections approach. The ADC has surfaced as a potential platform for opposition forces aiming to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Political analysts suggest that the coalition’s ability to present a united front and select a consensus candidate could significantly influence Nigeria’s political landscape leading up to the next presidential election.
The former vice president’s readiness to support any candidate chosen through the coalition’s process reflects an effort to maintain party cohesion, despite the possibility of internal competition. This strategy stands in contrast to previous election cycles, where opposition fragmentation often hindered collective attempts to unseat incumbent administrations. As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 election cycle, the ADC coalition’s success in fostering unity and selecting a strong candidate will likely be critical in determining the competitiveness of the presidential race.
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