The African Democratic Congress has cautioned supporters of its presidential aspirants against insisting on a “must-have” candidate approach, warning that such divisive loyalty could undermine the party’s chances in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during the virtual ADC Coalition Hours on Saturday, National Publicity Secretary Bola Abdullahi urged members to support all aspirants collectively.
“We have a responsibility to unite and focus on winning this election,” Abdullahi said.
“Saying it is either this candidate or nothing is not helpful. Such divisiveness benefits our opponents, particularly the APC and President Bola Tinubu.”
The ADC has emerged as a coalition platform for opposition figures seeking to challenge the incumbent in 2027.
Under the leadership of former Senate President David Mark as National Chairman and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary, the party has been consolidating its structures nationwide.
Several prominent politicians, including former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Peter Obi, have all declared intentions to seek the party’s presidential ticket.
Discussions on zoning have divided supporters, with Obi backers calling for the ticket to go to the South, while Atiku supporters favor an open contest.
Abdullahi said the party is working to maintain cohesion among its members.
“I met with Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, and others like Mallam Nasir El-Rufai to strengthen unity. The consensus is clear: we have a job to do to make this country better,” he explained.
He further emphasized that the timing of the elections could affect the party’s strategy.
“Whether the elections hold this year or next, it presents challenges. We need time to heal after our primaries. But our priority remains unity and readiness to win, not internal divisions,” Abdullahi added.
The ADC spokesperson reiterated that the party would begin initiatives to reinforce cohesion and discourage divisive rhetoric among aspirants’ supporters.
“All our aspirants are eminently qualified. Vilifying any candidate or region only makes the task harder. Those preaching division are not helping anyone—they must stop,” he said.
