ADC Crisis Deepens as Kwankwaso Signals VP Flexibility, Analyst Warns Opposition Against Repeat of 2023 Errors

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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is grappling with a deepening leadership crisis as rival factions battle for control ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The dispute pits a group led by Nafiu Bala against another faction aligned with former Senate President David Mark, both claiming legitimacy over the party’s national leadership.

Tensions escalated following the Mark-led faction’s announcement of the expulsion of Bala and several party officials, including Leke Abejide, during its 8th National Convention in Abuja. While the faction insists the move followed the party’s constitution, Bala has rejected the convention as illegal, arguing it lacks recognition from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Speaking in Abuja, Bala dismissed the expulsion, maintaining that those behind it lack the legal authority to act on behalf of the party and vowed to challenge the decision.

Amid the leadership tussle, a separate struggle is emerging within the Mark-led bloc over the party’s potential presidential candidate, with political alignments already forming around key figures.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar recently asserted his dominance among northern contenders, expressing confidence in ongoing coalition talks that could produce either a consensus candidate or a competitive primary.

The evolving political landscape also features prominent figures such as Peter Obi, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and Chibuike Amaechi, all of whom are seen as key players in any opposition alliance.

Supporters of Obi continue to insist on a “president or nothing” stance, even as he maintains close political ties with Kwankwaso. The duo’s supporters recently launched the Obi–Kwankwaso Movement, further fueling speculation about a possible joint ticket.

Meanwhile, Dumebi Kachikwu, the ADC’s 2023 presidential candidate, has criticised current aspirants, accusing them of prioritising personal ambition over national interest.

Kwankwaso Open to VP Role

In a significant development, Kwankwaso’s spokesperson, Habibu Saleh, revealed that the former Kano State governor is willing to accept any role—including a vice-presidential slot—if it would secure victory for the opposition in 2027.

According to Saleh, Kwankwaso’s primary goal is to unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), rather than pursue personal ambition.

He added that Kwankwaso has been actively building alliances and is prepared to make necessary sacrifices to strengthen the opposition coalition.

Saleh also dismissed claims that Kwankwaso’s influence is limited to Kano State, pointing to his performance in the 2023 elections, where he secured significant votes beyond his stronghold despite contesting on a relatively less established platform.

However, he ruled out the possibility of a northern-only ticket, stressing the need for regional and religious balance to ensure national acceptance.

Analyst Urges Unity Among Opposition Leaders

Political analyst Hassan Ibrahim has warned that the ADC’s chances in 2027 depend heavily on unity among key opposition figures.

He noted that the failure of Atiku, Obi, and Kwankwaso to align in the 2023 elections fractured the opposition, ultimately paving the way for Tinubu’s victory.

According to Ibrahim, a united front could significantly alter the political equation, given the combined strength of the three politicians in the last election.

He also cautioned that the ADC must first resolve its internal leadership disputes before pursuing broader coalition ambitions, warning that unresolved divisions could undermine its credibility with INEC and voters.

Ibrahim further stressed that personal ambition remains the biggest obstacle to any alliance, urging all parties involved to prioritise compromise over individual aspirations.

He concluded that unless opposition leaders learn from past mistakes and present a united front, they risk handing the ruling party another easy victory in 2027.