Atiku, Obi Have Not Discussed ADC Presidential Ticket — Paul Ibe

Paul Ibe, special adviser on media to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has clarified that Atiku and former Anambra State governor Peter Obi have not engaged in any discussions regarding the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general election.

Ibe’s statement came amid growing speculation about the coalition-backed party and the potential ambitions of both leaders within the opposition.

Speaking on ARISE Television’s *Prime Time* on Wednesday, Ibe dismissed reports suggesting any compromise talks over the party’s presidential nomination. “Having that kind of conversation is putting the cart before the horse,” he said. “I can tell you for a fact that what you just said now is not one of the conversations they are having.”

He explained that Atiku and Obi are currently focused on strengthening the ADC as a credible opposition capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). “Their preoccupation is building the party, ensuring they have a robust platform that can give the APC a run for their money,” Ibe said.

The media aide also accused the APC of attempting to stoke debate over the ADC ticket to weaken the opposition coalition.

Ibe’s remarks follow warnings from some of Obi’s allies, including Aisha Yesufu and Prof Pat Utomi, who have threatened to withdraw support if Obi accepts a vice-presidential role within the coalition.

Earlier, Atiku had stated that no aspirant would step aside for another within the ADC, a position formalised in a statement signed by Ibe. The statement reaffirmed the party’s commitment to an open and competitive process for the 2027 election.

Ibe concluded that discussions about ticket sharing are premature, noting that the coalition’s immediate focus is consolidating party structures and presenting a strong alternative to the APC.