2027: Opposition Coalition Gains Momentum as More Political Groups Collapse Structures Into ADC

The newly formed political coalition under the banner of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) continues to gain traction across Nigeria, with political groups and individuals from various parties collapsing their structures into the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In Rivers State, the Rivers Liberation Movement (RLM), a political pressure group previously aligned with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), officially joined the ADC coalition. Speaking to journalists in Port Harcourt, RLM leader Dr. Leloonu Nwibubasa said the move was aimed at mobilising the people of Rivers to break free from what he described as years of poverty and underdevelopment caused by “conscienceless leaders.” He also praised political figures such as former ministers Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi and Dr. Abiye Sekibo, Senator Lee Maeba, Prince Uche Secondus, and Sir Celestine Omehia for supporting the coalition.

In Adamawa State, ADC Chairman Mr. Shehu Yohanna reaffirmed the unity and legitimacy of the party’s leadership. He dismissed reports of resignations or structural collapse, stating that the ADC’s leadership remained focused on consolidating its presence ahead of 2027. He welcomed members of the Nigeria National Opposition Coalition who had recently adopted the ADC as their platform, describing the development as proof of the party’s growing national relevance.

Chief JoeMartin Uzodike, a former Anambra State Commissioner for Information, also hailed the emergence of the coalition as a boost for democratic vibrancy in Nigeria. Speaking in Awka, Uzodike stressed the importance of a strong opposition, saying it compels the ruling party to stay accountable and responsive. He said the ADC’s rise has made it a formidable force in the upcoming Anambra governorship election scheduled for November 8.

In Kogi State, Comrade Gowon Yakubu of the ADC declared that the party, being the primary platform for the coalition, is fully committed to the alliance. He emphasised that as the “receiving party,” the ADC must play a central role in the coalition’s activities.

Borno State is witnessing a mass defection of opposition party members to the ADC. Notable figures such as former APC governorship candidate Alhaji Idris Durkwa, now a PDP defector, and Hon. Atom Magira, a former NNPP candidate, are joining the coalition. Former APC candidate-turned-NNPP member Umaru Nasko is also reportedly onboard. Numerous supporters from both PDP and NNPP have submitted resignation letters, and even some APC members are holding discussions with the coalition.

In Enugu, the Progressives Group led by former APC state chairman Dr. Ben Nwoye has not formally joined the coalition but expressed support for its adoption of the ADC platform. The group described the coalition as essential to strengthening democracy and good governance in Nigeria.

In Sokoto State, the PDP faces an imminent collapse as party members await direction from former governor and coalition leader Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal. According to insiders, most PDP members in the state are prepared to join the ADC-led coalition once Tambuwal gives the signal, citing disillusionment with the party’s current state.

However, not all responses have been positive. In Lagos, Sir Jude Idimogu, a former state assembly member and APC leader, downplayed the coalition’s potential impact. He said the APC remained too strong to be unseated in 2027, although he acknowledged the right of other political actors to form alliances. Similarly, Delta State’s Director General for Communications and Orientation, Barr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, dismissed the coalition’s chances in the state, asserting that President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori would win re-election due to their performance in office.

In Ekiti State, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has not taken a clear position. State Chairman Mr. Bamkole Ayodele said the chapter was waiting for a directive from the party’s national leadership. Meanwhile, Chief Ade Ayeni, Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), stated that his party had no intention of joining the ADC.

In Zamfara State, ADC Chairman Kabiru Garba Gusau reported a surge in membership as hundreds of defectors from various parties, including the APC, PDP, and APGA, joined the ADC. He expressed confidence that the ADC-led coalition would dethrone the APC at both state and federal levels in the 2027 elections.

With momentum building across multiple states and political blocs, the ADC-led coalition appears to be positioning itself as the main opposition force capable of challenging the ruling APC’s hold on power in the coming general elections.