Atiku Sparks Political Shake-Up as He Dumps PDP, Embraces ADC Ahead of 2027
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has triggered a major shift in Nigeria’s political landscape after officially joining the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a move expected to reshape opposition strategy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Atiku formally registered as an ADC member on Monday, 24 November, 2025, at Jada Ward 1 in Jada Local Government Area of Adamawa State. He confirmed the development through a post on his official X handle, where he shared a photo holding his ADC membership card with a simple caption: “It’s official.”
The development comes months after Atiku resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in July, following prolonged internal conflicts that weakened the party’s cohesion. His exit signaled his intention to lead a broader coalition capable of challenging President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
In July, Atiku championed the adoption of the ADC as the central coalition platform for opposition figures ahead of 2027, a strategic move designed to unite fragmented political blocs under one umbrella.
His registration also follows the earlier declaration by former Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, who on November 19 began his membership validation process in Osun State. Aregbesola announced on social media that he completed his symbolic registration at Ward 8, Unit 1, Ifofin in Ilesa East Local Government Area, urging old members to validate their status and encouraging new followers to join the fast-growing party.
Atiku’s move has already sparked reactions across the political space. Some critics insist that neither he nor fellow opposition leaders such as Peter Obi can influence northern voters against President Tinubu. Others, however, believe that the former vice president’s entrance injects fresh momentum into an opposition that has struggled to find a unified direction.
Political analysts say the ADC, once considered a marginal party is rapidly transforming into a major destination for top political figures, signaling a potential realignment ahead of the 2027 elections. With Atiku and Aregbesola now validating their membership, the party is positioning itself as a serious challenger to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
As the Nation edges closer to another election cycle, attention will now shift to how effectively the ADC harnesses this renewed interest and whether Atiku’s influence can galvanize a unified opposition capable of contesting power in 2027.
