2027: Who owns the ADC presidential ticket? 

By: Dr. James Bwala

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) recently concluded its national convention, culminating in the election of David Mark, a prominent northern political figure, as its National Chairman. This outcome has sparked considerable debate and speculation about the party’s internal zoning strategies, especially regarding the 2027 presidential ticket. Central to this discussion are questions that touch on the very core of Nigerian politics: Will the ADC now zone its presidential nomination to the South, as per the unwritten zoning conventions that have largely guided political power distribution in Nigeria? 

If Atiku Abubakar, another influential northern politician, decides to contest the presidency under the ADC banner, which he will as a perpetual candidate, will David Mark step down from his chairmanship to accommodate zoning expectations? The currents of speculation are further fueled by rumors surrounding the ownership of the ADC presidential ticket. Meanwhile, on the opposing side of Nigeria’s political arena, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima stand battle-ready for the 2027 general elections, poised to face any rival. 

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These unfolding scenarios require astute political navigation by the ADC, which must balance regional dynamics, party cohesion, and electoral competitiveness to meaningfully challenge the well-entrenched political heavyweights. And I asked again, “Who owns the ticket?” 

The significance of zoning in Nigerian politics cannot be overstated. The concept of zoning, an informal arrangement designed to maintain a balance of power among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and regional groups, has traditionally aimed to mitigate feelings of marginalization and foster national unity. Across different political parties, zoning arrangements dictate the rotation of key positions—especially the presidency—between the North and the South. The ADC’s election of David Mark, a northern political stalwart, as National Chairman raises important questions about the party’s commitment to this principle regarding its presidential nomination. Given that the North has produced several recent presidents, including Muhammadu Buhari, many political observers and southern stakeholders expect the next presidential candidate, particularly from opposition parties, to hail from the South. This expectation aligns with broader national calls for fairness and regional inclusivity.

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Planning is an important function of management; the ADC can either plan to fail or plan to win in the 2027 political outing. The dilemma now is whether the ADC, by electing a northern chairman, is implicitly signaling a northern hold on the presidential candidacy or whether it intends to adhere to zoning conventions by nominating a southern presidential candidate. The party’s decision in this regard is more than symbolic; it will set the tone for its electoral viability and credibility. Should the ADC nominate another northerner for the presidency, it risks alienating southern voters who may perceive this as an entrenchment of northern dominance. 

Conversely, a genuine zoning commitment to the South would enable the party to strengthen its appeal across regional lines, potentially broadening its support base in preparation for the 2027 elections. Indeed, the balancing act is delicate, as internal party interests often complicate straightforward regional accommodation.

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Complicating matters further are the speculations surrounding Atiku Abubakar’s potential presidential ambitions within the ADC. Atiku, a former vice president and perennial presidential aspirant, commands significant influence, particularly in the North. Should Atiku choose to run under the ADC platform, this scenario would present an immediate conundrum vis-à-vis zoning and party leadership roles. If the party’s national chairman—David Mark—also from the North, is maintaining both leadership and presidential candidacy in the same region, this might be perceived as a violation of zoning equity, undermining the party’s coherence and public image. In such a circumstance, political logic and party discipline may compel David Mark to resign or temporarily step aside to enable a fair contest and to respect the spirit of zoning. This would demonstrate political maturity and respect for zoning conventions, thereby enhancing the ADC’s stance as a party that values national integration and equitable power-sharing.

However, politics rarely operates in neat, idealistic frameworks. Both David Mark and Atiku wield considerable political clout, and compromises may be difficult to reach. The ADC must therefore engage in strategic policymaking and consensus-building to manage these personalities and expectations effectively. Failure to manage this tension risks internal fractures that could weaken the party’s position ahead of one of Nigeria’s most consequential general elections.

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Another layer to this complex narrative is the question: who currently “owns” the ADC presidential ticket? In Nigerian politics, the notion of “owning” a party ticket often transcends official processes, involving informal agreements, internal lobbying, and political bargaining. Rumors abound that influential figures within the ADC have stakes in the presidential candidacy. Disentangling these claims requires transparency and democratic internal mechanisms within the party. A credible and inclusive primary process that allows aspirants to compete fairly is essential to establishing the legitimacy of the eventual candidate. If the party falls into the trap of conceding the ticket to a single individual or faction prematurely, it risks alienating other stakeholders and undermining collective motivation.

Clear communication from the ADC leadership about the timelines, criteria, and processes for selecting its presidential candidate can help dispel rumors and unify the party’s message. Moreover, the ADC must remain mindful that the Nigerian electorate is increasingly discerning, demanding accountability and fairness from political parties. Demonstrating internal democracy will signal to voters that the ADC is different from the status quo political machinery, potentially heightening its competitive edge.

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Yet, even with effective internal arrangements, the ADC faces formidable opposition from established political giants. On the other side of the political spectrum, Bola Tinubu and Kashim Shettima are widely seen as front-runners for the ruling party’s presidential and vice-presidential tickets in 2027. Tinubu, a political strategist with deep-rooted networks, and Shettima, a strategic and respected vice president with considerable regional influence, represent an entrenched political coalition with vast resources and an extensive grassroots structure. This reality means the ADC’s efforts to position itself as a viable alternative must go beyond internal zoning debates; it must articulate a compelling vision and program that resonates with Nigerians across ethno-regional divides.

To challenge Tinubu and Shettima, the ADC will need to leverage its unique positioning and capitalize on public dissatisfaction with the incumbent administration. The party must also use the zoning issue strategically to present itself as a champion of national unity and equitable representation. By successfully navigating internal regional complexities, the ADC can portray itself as a model of political inclusion in contrast to the often divisive politics of established parties.

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There are cracks everywhere within the ADC. Indeed, the ADC’s recent election of David Mark as National Chairman opens a complex but critical chapter in the party’s evolution. Addressing the zoning question concerning the 2027 presidential ticket will test the party’s commitment to national inclusivity and internal democracy. Should Atiku Abubakar pursue the presidency under the ADC, the party faces the additional challenge of reconciling competing northern interests while maintaining the integrity of zoning conventions. The ownership of the presidential ticket remains contested, underscoring the need for transparent and democratic selection processes. 

Ultimately, while Tinubu and Shettima appear ready to dominate the 2027 electoral landscape, the ADC has an opportunity to redefine Nigeria’s political narrative through judicious management of regional dynamics and a unified front. A successful navigation of these challenges will not only enhance the ADC’s electoral prospects but also contribute to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic fabric. It is incumbent upon the ADC leadership and members to act decisively, inclusively, and strategically as they prepare for the political battles ahead. With questions swinging around Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and others in the race for the ticket, there seemed to be a time bomb for the ADC waiting to explode should the party fail to plan. 

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja. 

2027: Who owns the ADC presidential ticket? 

ADC Declares Itself ‘Unstoppable Force,’ Accuses APC, INEC of Undermining Democracy

By: Michael Mike

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared itself an unstoppable political force, likening its rise to the certainty of the sun, while launching a scathing attack on the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over what it described as growing threats to Nigeria’s democracy.

In its Secretariat report presented by the National Secretary of the party, lOgbeni Rauf Aregbesola

at the party’s 8th National Convention in Abuja on Tuesday, the ADC said no individual, group, or institution could determine its existence, insisting that its legitimacy stems from the will of Nigerians.

The party stressed that it was founded on constitutional guarantees of freedom of association and is driven by what it called widespread public frustration with economic hardship and governance failures.

Describing its mission as a “national rescue effort,” the ADC accused the APC-led administration of presiding over worsening economic conditions, including currency depreciation, rising fuel prices, and declining living standards.

According to the report, the naira’s fall from about N700 to the dollar in 2023 to roughly N1,400 currently represents a severe blow to an import-dependent economy. It also cited the sharp rise in petrol prices—from below N238 per litre to about N1,400—as a major driver of hardship, making transportation unaffordable for many workers.

The party further criticised the government’s handling of electricity supply, alleging that power conditions have deteriorated, with some areas receiving only a few hours of electricity daily.

On governance, the ADC used strong language, warning against what it described as “kakistocracy,” and accused the ruling party of attempting to weaken electoral accountability. It also faulted the administration’s education record, claiming the number of out-of-school children has increased to about 20 million, while multidimensional poverty affects over 130 million Nigerians.

The report argued that the current administration had failed to meet key promises and should be held accountable by voters.

The ADC also accused INEC of failing in its statutory duty by refusing to monitor its convention, describing the move as “dereliction of duty” and evidence of partisan bias.

Citing provisions of the Electoral Act, the party maintained that the commission is legally required to observe political party conventions, especially those involving leadership elections, candidate selection, or merger decisions.

It warned that any attempt to delegitimise its activities would undermine democratic norms and called on the international community to closely monitor developments in Nigeria’s political space.

Despite the tensions, the ADC expressed confidence in its growth, claiming it has rapidly evolved into a major opposition force within months of restructuring and coalition-building efforts.

The party reaffirmed its readiness to contest and provide leadership ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging Nigerians to support what it described as a movement to reclaim the country.

ADC Declares Itself ‘Unstoppable Force,’ Accuses APC, INEC of Undermining Democracy

2027: Of Shettima’s remarks And Atiku’s response 

By: Dr. James Bwala

I believe that interactions among top leaders often attract intense scrutiny and can influence public perception considerably. A recent episode involving former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and current Vice President Kashim Shettima provides a compelling case study on the intersection of respect, cultural values, and political discourse. Atiku’s claim of refusal to engage publicly with Kashim, labeling him as disrespectful, juxtaposed with Kashim’s assertion that his comments were merely political challenges devoid of personal offense, raises essential questions about the nature of respect in politics, especially within the cultural context of Northern Nigeria. 

While respect and decorum are foundational values, particularly in traditional societies, political engagement demands a distinct understanding where robust debate and challenge are not only expected but necessary. Atiku, given his extensive experience, should recognize this distinction and refrain from conflating political contestation with personal disrespect.

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It is critical first to understand the cultural backdrop against which these statements were made. Northern Nigerian society places immense importance on respect, especially towards elders and those who hold traditional authority. In this context, respect is not merely a social nicety but a fundamental principle that preserves societal harmony and upholds long-standing customs. Atiku’s appeal to this cultural framework underscores a genuine concern for maintaining decorum in public discourse, reflecting a desire to keep political rivalry within respectful bounds. His position resonates with many who believe that politics should not erode the basic tenets of interpersonal respect that unify communities.

However, it is equally important to recognize that political arenas operate under somewhat different norms than traditional social settings. Politics inherently involves contestation, negotiation, and at times, confrontation. Public figures, especially those in leadership roles, are expected to engage vigorously with criticism and challenges, understanding that these encounters are part of the democratic process. VP Kashim Shettima’s response — framing his remarks as a call for transparency and accountability rather than a personal affront — exemplifies this political dynamic. In politics, questioning an opponent’s record or demanding clarification is not an act of disrespect but a fundamental exercise of democratic engagement designed to inform the electorate and hold leaders accountable.

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Atiku’s stance, which carefully separates political platforms from traditional ones, inadvertently blurs an important line. While it is true that traditional platforms emphasize honor and respect toward elders, contemporary political platforms must prioritize open dialogue and constructive criticism. By conflating the two realms, Atiku risks imposing cultural expectations that do not fully apply in the political sphere, which may inhibit honest debate. This conflation can be detrimental, as it discourages politicians from engaging transparently, fearing accusations of disrespect rather than focusing on the substance of their arguments.

Atiku’s considerable experience in Nigerian politics should provide him with a nuanced understanding of political etiquette—one that balances respect with the necessity for outspoken, even pointed, political discourse. Public officeholders should anticipate and accept challenges from their peers without interpreting them as personal attacks. VP Kashim Shettima’s comments, which called upon Atiku to specify his claims on mentorship of men in certain numbers, are a standard political maneuver aimed at fostering clarity and accountability. Such engagements are vital to democracy and should be welcomed rather than rebuffed.

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It is also worth considering the potential consequences of Atiku’s refusal to engage politically with Kashim Shettima. When senior politicians avoid direct discourse citing disrespect, it sets a precedent that political opponents cannot challenge each other robustly without incurring accusations of impropriety. This could stifle political debate, limit the electorate’s access to contrasting views, and ultimately weaken the democratic process. Healthy democracies thrive on transparent discussions where candidates and leaders openly articulate their policies, question one another’s records, and clarify positions without fear of personal reprisal.

Indeed, Kashim Shettima’s acknowledgment that his remarks were political rather than personal reflects a mature understanding of political culture. It signals a willingness to engage in substantive debate and an acceptance that political rivalry does not equate to personal enmity. This attitude should be encouraged among political leaders to foster an environment where ideas and policies take precedence over personal sensitivities. Such an environment is essential for the evolution of Nigeria’s democracy and the development of governance that truly serves the people.

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The response of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the stance of Vice President Kashim Shettima illustrates the tension between traditional values of respect and the vigorous nature of political engagement. While Atiku’s emphasis on decorum and cultural respect is commendable and reflective of his roots, it is imperative that he, and by extension all Nigerian politicians, differentiate between the expectations of traditional society and the requirements of political life. Political platforms demand open, sometimes confrontational dialogue that prioritizes truth and accountability over personal feelings.

Experienced politicians like Atiku should lead by example, demonstrating that respect in politics does not imply avoiding challenge but rather engaging with criticism constructively and without personalizing disputes. This distinction ensures that political debate remains vibrant and substantive, enriching Nigeria’s democratic culture. In this light, Kashim’s remarks represent the healthy functioning of political discourse, and Atiku’s response, though rooted in cultural sensibilities, would be better served by embracing the ethos of political respect—where contestation and honor coexist to strengthen governance and democracy. Thus, it is not disrespect but democracy in action as more of these would come to play as we head towards the 2027 election campaigns. 

James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

2027: Of Shettima’s remarks And Atiku’s response