Atiku Denies Adopting ADA As New Political Party
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has dismissed reports that he and his political allies have adopted the All Democratic Alliance (ADA) as their new platform ahead of the 2027 elections.
His media aide, Demola Olarenwaju, clarified on Saturday that the Nigeria National Coalition Group (NNCG), which is pushing for ADA’s registration with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has not yet finalised any decision.
Olarenwaju said, “A group is in the process of pursuing party registration, just like any other Nigerian, but they need to coordinate this with the coalition. ADA has not been adopted by the coalition, and when the time is right, the public will be informed about the appropriate choices and decisions.”
The clarification comes amid growing tension within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where Atiku’s imminent departure—along with other key figures like former Senate President David Mark and former House Speaker Aminu Tambuwal—is causing anxiety.
Sources in the PDP revealed that Atiku’s planned exit and the recent defection of Delta and Akwa Ibom governors to the APC have compounded the party’s internal crisis.
Mark reportedly chaired the NNCG meeting where the decision to apply for ADA’s registration was reached.
The PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, declined comment, but insiders disclosed that leaders who were previously at odds with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and PDP National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu are now considering reconciliation through the Bukola Saraki-led Peace and Reconciliation Committee.
A party source said, “Before the ADA issue, disagreements over recognising Anyanwu as National Secretary already threatened the upcoming National Executive Committee meeting scheduled for June 30, the August convention, and preparations for the 2027 elections.”
The source added that Wike holds significant influence, especially with the Supreme Court’s backing of Anyanwu’s position.
Meanwhile, Atiku loyalist Prof. Tunde Olusunle blamed the PDP’s problems on internal sabotage.
Olusunle stated, “The defections of two PDP governors haven’t rattled the party as much as the apprehension about Atiku’s possible exit. It shows the quantum goodwill Atiku still commands.”
He added that the party’s decline started after the 2022 presidential primaries, when some factions began undermining it from within.
Olusunle said the coalition could become a major force if Peter Obi joins, especially in the South East.
“Once Obi joins, the coalition will bag the South East,” he said, noting that Atiku, as a pragmatic democrat, would not compel loyalists to leave the PDP.
He concluded, “People are entitled to their political preferences. The coalition is attracting supporters nationwide, including top figures from Katsina State who pledged allegiance last week.”
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
