ADC Rejects Atiku, Declares Chris Uba as Presidential Candidate for 2027

A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has rejected former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s presidential ambition and declared Prof. Chris Uba as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.

The development comes amid ongoing leadership disputes within the opposition party and growing efforts to reposition the ADC ahead of the next presidential election.

The faction, led by National Chairman Nafiu Bala, popularly known as Gombe, unveiled Uba as its presidential flag bearer, stating that the party’s presidential ticket had been zoned to Southern Nigeria in line with the principles of federal character, equity, fairness and national inclusiveness.

Party leaders described the process that produced Uba as transparent, peaceful and in accordance with the party’s constitution and electoral guidelines.

The declaration is expected to further deepen the divisions within the ADC, which has witnessed competing claims to its leadership structure and growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 polls.

The move also comes amid reports of consultations involving Atiku Abubakar and other opposition figures seeking to build alliances capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next general election.

Political observers say the emergence of Chris Uba adds another dimension to the evolving opposition landscape, with several parties and factions already positioning themselves for the presidential contest.

The ADC’s internal disputes and competing claims over leadership and candidacy are expected to remain a major issue as political activities intensify in the build-up to the 2027 elections.