Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has formally registered as a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Adamawa State, marking a major realignment in Nigeria’s opposition politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The registration, completed on Monday, followed Atiku’s public declaration over the weekend before ADC supporters and key stakeholders in his home state. His aide, Abdul Rasheeth, confirmed the development, noting that the former Vice President had concluded all formal processes with the party leadership.
Videos and photos from the event showed Atiku’s convoy entering the town to a warm reception, with drums, singing, and cheering supporters waving placards emblazoned with his portrait. Shortly after completing the registration, Atiku posted on his X account, “It’s official. -AA,” signalling the end of months of speculation.
Atiku had earlier endorsed the ADC in July as a strategic platform for opposition cooperation, urging other political figures such as Peter Obi and Babachir Lawal to join forces ahead of the next presidential race. Until now, however, he and several other opposition leaders had stopped short of formally joining the party—making this move a significant step toward unifying Nigeria’s fragmented opposition.
Political analysts say his entry could boost the ADC’s organisational strength and national visibility as the election cycle intensifies.
Speaking to journalists in Bauchi on Monday, Senator Nazif Gamawa, the ADC’s National Vice Chairman, voiced confidence that the party could achieve electoral success even without the backing of sitting governors.
“The people have already believed that a new political movement is the option, so ADC is the saviour. We are giving them one blow,” Gamawa said.
He dismissed allegations of internal party issues and invited politicians who feel alienated in their current parties to consider the ADC as a viable home. Gamawa also criticised the expensive nomination practices common among major parties.
“We are not going to be like them. We will give a chance to every well-meaning Nigerian,” he said.
Gamawa, a former deputy national chairman of the PDP, emphasised the ADC’s commitment to fairness, youth mentorship, and inclusive governance. He urged Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards, stressing that the country’s future depends on informed and responsible voting.
Atiku’s decision to formally enlist in the ADC is expected to generate significant political ripple effects, potentially reshaping alliances as the countdown to 2027 begins.
