As Nigeria heads into the heat of political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, a bold new coalition has emerged to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
At the centre of this movement is the African Democratic Congress (ADC), now adopted as the official vehicle for a growing opposition alliance.
But political coalitions don’t just happen, they are powered by individuals with influence, grassroots networks, strategic minds, and, in some cases, scores to settle.
From seasoned politicians to silent power brokers, several key figures are driving the momentum behind this opposition front that is quickly reshaping Nigeria’s political narrative.
Here are 10 political bigwigs currently shaping the course of the new opposition coalition in Nigeria.
1. Sen. David Mark – The interim national chairman
A respected political figure and former Senate President, David Mark has emerged as the interim national chairman of the ADC following the party’s internal restructuring to accommodate the broader coalition.
His selection signals a serious push for credibility and order.
Known for his calm yet firm political style, Mark brings decades of legislative and executive experience to the table, serving as a unifying elder statesman for the coalition.
2. Abubakar Malami – The game-changing defector
Once a powerful voice in President Buhari’s cabinet, Abubakar Malami shocked the political establishment by dumping the APC and joining the ADC-led opposition.
His defection not only adds legal firepower but also symbolises deep cracks within the APC.
Malami is believed to be instrumental in developing the coalition’s legal and institutional frameworks ahead of 2027.
3. Atiku Abubakar – The coalition’s leading statesman
Atiku Abubakar, Nigeria’s former Vice President and 2023 PDP presidential candidate, has now openly aligned himself with the ADC-led opposition coalition even though he has yet to defect from the PDP.
At the official unveiling of the alliance in Abuja, Atiku stood as one of the foremost figures behind the movement, confirming widespread speculations about his role in shaping a new political direction for the country.
His presence signals not just moral support but active leadership, leveraging his vast political network across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
As a seasoned politician with deep electoral experience, Atiku is expected to be a central force in strategy, candidate selection, and coalition-building as the 2027 elections approach.
5. Sen. Dino Melaye – The media warrior
Dino Melaye, a former senator and outspoken critic of the ruling APC, has become an increasingly visible face in the new opposition coalition.
Known for his fiery rhetoric, strong media presence, and populist style, Melaye plays a crucial role in messaging and grassroots mobilisation, particularly among younger voters and those disillusioned with mainstream politics.
His defection to the ADC camp signifies a strategic shift in tone and engagement, giving the coalition a powerful communicator who is unafraid to take on the government publicly.
6. Rauf Aregbesola – The political strategist, organiser
Rauf Aregbesola, former Governor of Osun State and a key player in Nigeria’s political scene, has joined the ADC-led opposition coalition, bringing with him vast experience in grassroots mobilisation and party organisation.
Known for his strategic mind and ability to build winning campaigns, Aregbesola is expected to be instrumental in structuring the coalition’s operations, especially in the Southwest.
His deep connections and political acumen strengthen the coalition’s chances of gaining critical support from a region that played a pivotal role in previous elections.
7. Rotimi Amaechi – The south-south powerhouse
Rotimi Amaechi, former Minister of Transportation and two-term Governor of Rivers State, has officially defected to the ADC-led opposition coalition, marking one of the most high-profile shifts yet.
A long-time political heavyweight and ex-presidential aspirant under the APC, Amaechi brings with him deep influence in the South-South, a robust political network, and national name recognition.
His defection signals a major blow to the APC, particularly in Rivers State and its neighbouring strongholds.
Within the new coalition, Amaechi is expected to play a strategic role in both regional mobilisation and coalition negotiations as 2027 draws near.
8. Aisha Yesufu – The youth mobilizer
Activist and political voice Aisha Yesufu may not be a party chieftain, but her influence on Nigeria’s youth, especially the Obidient demographic, cannot be ignored.
Her endorsement or involvement with the coalition, even informally, would energise youth voter blocs crucial to upsetting the APC in 2027.
9. Buba Galadima – The vocal critic
Once a close ally of Buhari, Buba Galadima has become one of the most vocal critics of the APC.
A staunch believer in political alternatives, Galadima has been working to bridge the North-South divide in opposition politics.
His grassroots connections and credibility among northern dissenters are key assets to the coalition.
10. Ralph O. Nwosu – The architect of ADC’s transition
As the former national chairman of the ADC, Ralph Nwosu took the bold step of stepping aside to make room for the broader coalition.
His decision marked the official transfer of party control to the opposition alliance, making him a silent but strategic architect of this new political realignment.
Conclusion
With growing discontent over insecurity, economic hardship, and party fatigue, the formation of a formidable opposition coalition could be a defining chapter in Nigeria’s political story.
But behind every political movement are men and women pulling the strings, taking the risks, and shaping the narrative.
As 2027 draws closer, these 10 figures, and possibly more, will determine whether the coalition becomes a passing headline or the engine of real change.