ADC: The Only Party to Salvage Nigeria? Atiku Abubakar Explains Why

 

​In a move that has fundamentally shifted the tectonic plates of Nigerian politics, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has declared the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as the only political platform with the structural integrity and visionary leadership capable of salvaging the country. This bold assertion, made on February 12, 2026, follows Atiku’s high-profile defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and his subsequent registration as a card-carrying member of the ADC in his hometown of Jada, Adamawa State. As the nation inches closer to the 2027 general elections, Atiku's endorsement of the ADC signals a grand strategic realignment intended to create a formidable front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

​The Ideological Shift: Why Atiku Chose the ADC

​Atiku’s transition to the ADC is not merely a change of party logo; it is, according to him, a return to foundational democratic principles. Having spent decades at the forefront of the PDP, Atiku cited "irreconcilable differences" and a departure from the party’s original mission as his primary reasons for leaving. He believes that the ADC, through its inclusive "3rd Force" coalition model, offers a fresh start for a nation currently grappling with economic headwinds and security challenges.

​The ADC has historically positioned itself as a "bridge-builder" party, focusing on youth inclusion and grassroots mobilization. By aligning with this platform, Atiku is tapping into a structure that he believes can "encompass and reflect the aspirations of the Nigerian people" more effectively than the current two-party dominant system.

​The Grand Coalition: Atiku, Obi, and the Quest for Unity

​The most compelling aspect of Atiku’s move to the ADC is its role as the centerpiece of a massive opposition coalition. The ADC has become the "coalition platform" of choice for several high-profile figures, including former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Babachir Lawal.

​While internal debates persist—particularly regarding the 2027 presidential ticket—Atiku has remained firm on the necessity of competitive primaries. He has vowed to rescue Nigerians from what he describes as the "failed policies of the APC," insisting that a united ADC coalition is the only potent force that can "shock the world" in the next election cycle. This coalition aims to prevent the emergence of a one-party state, ensuring that Nigerian democracy remains vibrant and competitive.

​Strengthening the Grassroots: The "No Time to Waste" Directive

​Since formally joining the ADC, Atiku has not been a silent member. He recently hosted a strategic meeting with ADC State Chairmen and stakeholders, delivering a clear "no time to waste" mandate. The focus is currently on:

• ​Massive Membership Drives: Scaling up registration across all 774 Local Government Areas.
• ​Structural Harmonization: Integrating Atiku’s vast nationwide support groups into the ADC’s existing organs.
• ​Policy Development: Creating a robust economic blueprint that addresses inflation and the fluctuating exchange rate.

​Political analysts observe that Atiku's presence has already given the ADC a significant boost in the Northeast, where his loyalists have reportedly begun defecting in droves from other parties to join the "Red and White" fold.

​Challenges Ahead: Factions and Internal Dynamics

​Despite the optimism, the road to "salvaging Nigeria" is not without hurdles. The ADC has faced some internal friction, with certain factions expressing reservations about the influx of "political heavyweights" and how it might affect the party’s original identity. Furthermore, voices like Daniel Bwala have predicted challenges for the coalition, suggesting that managing the egos of multiple presidential hopefuls within one party will be the ultimate test of the ADC’s endurance.

​Atiku, however, remains undeterred. He views these internal debates as a sign of a healthy, functioning democracy—something he argues is missing in other major parties. His focus remains on the "bigger picture": a national rescue mission facilitated by a disciplined and unified ADC.

​Conclusion: A New Chapter in Nigerian Democracy

​The declaration that the ADC is the only party capable of salvaging Nigeria marks the beginning of a high-stakes political gamble for Atiku Abubakar. By staking his 2027 ambitions on this platform, he is betting that Nigerians are ready for a departure from the PDP-APC binary. As the ADC continues to build its coalition and harmonize its diverse interests, the eyes of the nation remain fixed on whether this "3rd Force" can truly transform into the vehicle of change that Atiku envisions.