ADC Primaries Marred by Disputes as Opposition Readies for 2027
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) faces growing internal tensions after governorship and presidential primaries were marred by allegations of irregularities, parallel exercises, and voter disenfranchisement across multiple states. While former Vice President Atiku Abubakar won the presidential primary, both Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and businessman Mohammed Hayatu-Deen rejected the outcome, citing widespread disenfranchisement. Rivers State emerged as the biggest flashpoint with parallel primaries producing three different candidates. Similar disputes erupted in Oyo, Akwa Ibom, Kaduna, and Katsina states, with aggrieved aspirants demanding fresh elections and threatening legal action. Despite these controversies, ADC successfully produced candidates in several states including Delta, Sokoto, Kwara, Gombe, Bauchi, Kebbi, Lagos, and Jigawa. The disputes expose struggles over party control and raise questions about ADC's ability to manage a broad opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 elections. Constitutional lawyer Chima Nnaji warned that unresolved disputes could create legal complications and weaken the party's electoral prospects. ADC's National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi acknowledged process shortcomings but denied deliberate disenfranchisement, stating the party would resolve disputes and rebuild unity. As ADC positions itself as a credible alternative to the ruling APC, how these internal crises are managed could significantly impact public perceptions of its readiness to lead a national opposition movement.