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Tensions have flared within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) amid growing speculation that the party has been selected by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi as their unified political platform for the 2027 elections.
AFRIPOST gathered that in preparation for this high-stakes alliance, the ADC quietly revised its constitution, removing a two-year membership requirement that previously barred newcomers from contesting leadership roles or elective positions.
While the constitutional amendment is considered a calculated move to accommodate heavyweight politicians crossing over from rival parties, it has sparked dissent across various state chapters.
Some party executives view the decision as an opportunity to elevate the party’s national relevance, while others believe the leadership has conceded too much influence to outsiders.
Several state leaders, particularly those from the South-South and North-Central regions, have raised concerns over potentially being displaced by the Atiku-Obi alliance.
They fear that the ADC could fracture under the pressure of what they see as a hostile takeover.
Still, some party members are open to compromise. ADC Chairmen in Rivers, Niger, Kano, Kaduna, and Kebbi States have expressed readiness to resign if their departure would boost the party’s chances in 2027.
Kano State Chairman Musa Ungogo remarked, “Our party symbol is a handshake, which represents unity. We can’t reject people of high calibre who want to join us.”
National Chairman Ralph Nwosu confirmed the constitutional changes, explaining they were made to welcome newcomers into leadership roles without delay.
“The fact that we founded the party doesn’t mean we own it,” Nwosu said. “We have opened ourselves up for a coalition.
“Now, the power we have as members of over 20 years is the same power that new members will enjoy.”
However, not all members are on board. Party leaders in Osun, Delta, Plateau, Benue, and Gombe states have voiced fierce opposition to the restructuring, which they claim was done without proper consultation.
“We are open to negotiations, but it must be a give-and-take situation,” said Charles Omidiji, Chairman of the Osun State chapter.
“Let people defect to our party, but to hold the view that they will come in and displace us — that will not happen.”
Echoing the frustration, Delta Chairman Austin Okolie added, “You can’t change the people who have laboured for the party. If not for them, there would be no ADC to form a coalition with.”
Chilos Godsent, the South-East Vice Chairman, issued a stern warning: “Any form of imposition will destabilize the party.”
Some members also criticized the National Executive Council meeting of May 15, where the amendments were made, accusing the leadership of bypassing wide consultation.
Nevertheless, the ADC’s top brass remains confident that this coalition is the party’s best bet to unseat the ruling All Progressives Congress in the next general election.