The formal unveiling of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as the coalition platform for Nigeria’s opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections has sparked renewed political realignments, highlighting emerging fractures within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Key figures announced in the coalition include former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, as interim National Secretary; former Senate President, David Mark, as National Chairman; and ex-Kwara State Commissioner, Bolaji Abdullahi, as spokesperson. Their appointments signal the beginning of serious preparations for the 2027 presidential contest.
However, conspicuously absent from the coalition’s leadership is former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, once a close associate of Atiku Abubakar. Inside sources claim that Saraki was deliberately excluded due to unresolved trust issues with the former Vice President. Allegations have surfaced that Saraki worked behind the scenes with influential PDP figures opposed to Atiku’s 2023 presidential bid and was implicated in the mismanagement of campaign funds allocated to Kwara State—factors believed to have influenced Atiku’s electoral loss in the state.
Following the 2023 elections, the Kwara PDP suffered internal disarray as several prominent members left the party. Those who exited, including Bolaji Abdullahi, Alhaja Riskat Abdullahi, Prince Tunji Moronfoye, Mallam Abdulrazaq Lawal, and the former state PDP youth leader, cited mismanagement, lack of accountability, and Saraki’s autocratic leadership style as key reasons for their departure.
Saraki’s marginalisation became further evident when the Kwara PDP released a strongly worded statement warning its members against participating in the new coalition movement. Political analysts interpret the statement as a reflection of Saraki’s growing frustration over being sidelined, particularly as one of his former allies, Bolaji Abdullahi, has taken a central role in the coalition’s formation.
Observers believe the Kwara PDP’s hardline stance is an attempt to retain loyalty within a shrinking support base and ward off further defections. However, critics suggest the development exposes deeper internal divisions and marks a decline in Saraki’s influence within both the state chapter and the national opposition.
As the ADC gathers momentum and more former PDP loyalists gravitate toward the coalition, questions mount about Saraki’s relevance and political future ahead of the 2027 elections.
