Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has indicated that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) will hold direct primaries to select its 2027 presidential candidate if a consensus candidate cannot be agreed upon within the coalition.
Speaking on Arise TV on Wednesday evening, Atiku outlined the coalition’s approach to choosing its flagbearer. “The first option will be to work out a consensus,” he explained. “If that doesn’t work out, then we will go for primary elections.”
When pressed on whether he would step aside if he failed to secure the party’s nomination, Atiku reframed the question. “It is not the issue of stepping aside, but will I support?” he said. “I will support anybody that emerges.”
The former vice president 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 stated. “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 ahead of the 2027 elections. The ADC has emerged as a potential vehicle for opposition forces seeking to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Political analysts note that the coalition’s ability to present a united front and select a consensus candidate could significantly impact Nigeria’s political landscape in the lead-up to the next presidential election.
The former vice president’s willingness to support any candidate chosen through the coalition’s process signals an attempt to maintain party cohesion despite potential internal competition. This approach contrasts with previous election cycles where opposition fragmentation has often undermined collective efforts to unseat incumbent administrations.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 election cycle, the success of the ADC coalition in maintaining unity and selecting a strong candidate will likely prove crucial in determining the competitiveness of the presidential race.
