In what appears to be the boldest opposition move yet ahead of the 2027 general elections, leading political figures from across Nigeria converged in Abuja on Thursday under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The meeting, held behind closed doors, brought together former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy Isa Pantami, ex-Senate President David Mark, former Sokoto Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, and Abdulfatah Ahmed, a close ally of Dr. Bukola Saraki.
The ADC, which has in recent months been repackaged as a coalition platform for opposition forces, used the Abuja meeting to fine-tune strategies for mounting a formidable challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Atiku, who later took to his X (formerly Twitter) handle, described the gathering as “a meeting of the Nigerian people against the oligarchs who promote poverty and insecurity,” stressing that the coalition’s mission is to confront entrenched interests holding back Nigeria’s progress.
The presence of such heavyweight politicians signals an emerging alliance that could reshape the political landscape. Analysts say the ADC, long considered a fringe party, is gradually becoming a rallying point for politicians disillusioned with the dominance of the APC and the lack of cohesion in other opposition blocs.
The coalition has already alleged attempts by figures within the current administration to destabilize the new movement. However, insiders insist the Abuja gathering shows the determination of its members to resist such pressure and remain united.
While the opposition’s rhetoric is gaining momentum, observers note that the coalition will be tested on its ability to translate high-level meetings and photo opportunities into grassroots mobilization, coherent policy alternatives, and a unified structure capable of surviving internal rivalries.
With nearly two years until Nigerians head to the polls, the Abuja meeting underscores one fact: the 2027 race has effectively begun.