Many top figures within the African Democratic Congress are reportedly planning to defect to the National Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 general elections, following deepening internal crisis and legal uncertainties within the party.
At the centre of the unfolding political realignment is Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, who sources say has been consulting widely with stakeholders over a possible move.
Insiders disclosed that dissatisfaction with the party’s internal structure and a recent Supreme Court judgment have heightened concerns about the ADC’s stability going into the next election cycle.
The apex court, while vacating an earlier injunction that removed David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as National Chairman and Secretary respectively, returned the substantive leadership dispute to the Federal High Court for further hearing.
The decision, though seen as temporary relief by some, has left unresolved issues that could affect the party’s leadership at a critical time.
A source close to Obi said the former governor had grown concerned that the party structure may not guarantee a level playing field.
“If the party structure is skewed in favour of an aspirant, obviously that aspirant will win, and it will not amount to a credible primary election,” the source said, adding that ongoing litigations within the party had further weakened confidence in its viability.
The source also claimed that discussions had already been held with the NDC, which is reportedly willing to offer Obi its presidential ticket for the 2027 elections.
Another aide confirmed that a formal announcement could be made in the coming days.
However, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, declined to confirm or deny the development, maintaining that Obi remains committed to contesting in 2027.
“I would neither confirm nor deny until such a pronouncement is made officially. What is clear is that Peter Obi will be on the ballot,” he said.
Reacting to the development, the NDC Deputy Publicity Secretary, Abdulmumin Abdulsalam, acknowledged ongoing engagements involving Obi and former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso with the party’s leadership.
He noted that while no formal confirmation had been made, there was a strong possibility of an alliance, adding that the party remained open to accommodating new entrants.
Meanwhile, more ADC leaders are said to be considering defection in the wake of the court ruling, amid fears that the unresolved legal battle could undermine the party’s prospects.
An ADC chieftain described the judgment as “postponing the evil day,” warning that the outcome at the Federal High Court could still destabilise the party.
The National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, Bolaji Abdullahi, dismissed reports of an impending mass exit, stating that he was unaware of any such move by coalition leaders.
In a related development, former Adamawa State governorship candidate, Aishatu Binani, has formally joined the NDC, nine months after leaving the All Progressives Congress for the ADC.
Binani said her decision was driven by the party’s commitment to structured governance and the wishes of her supporters, whom she described as central to her political journey.
Welcoming her into the party, the National Leader of the NDC, Seriake Dickson, described the party as an inclusive platform ready to accommodate new members and expand its political base.
He also extended an invitation to other political leaders seeking viable platforms ahead of the 2027 elections, urging them to consider the NDC as a credible alternative.
The developments signal a potential shift in Nigeria’s political landscape as parties and key figures begin strategic realignments ahead of the next general elections.