ABUJA, NIGERIA — Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has returned to Nigeria following a brief trip to Morocco, a move that has immediately sent the political temperature rising as he prepares to formalise his 2027 presidential bid under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The Waziri Adamawa’s return comes just as the ADC confirmed that he has officially paid the ₦90 million fee for the party’s presidential expression of interest and nomination forms. A formal ceremony for the presentation of the documents is scheduled to take place at the party’s national secretariat on Monday.
The “Factor” in the Race
Atiku’s entry into the ADC primary marks a significant shift in the opposition landscape. Despite his exit from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), his supporters maintain that his vast network, grassroots contacts, and decades of experience make him the most formidable challenger to the status quo.
“Atiku does not need to say much before the room begins to adjust,” a close associate noted. “His return is a reminder that the race is not empty and nobody should mistake calm movement for weakness.”
Allegations of Party “Coronation”
However, the former Vice President’s move into the ADC has not been without controversy. Rumours have persisted that Atiku essentially “bought” the party structure from its long-standing National Chairman, Chief Ralph Nwosu, to ensure a smooth “coronation” as the presidential candidate.
These allegations have been fueled by the fact that the ADC now operates from the same headquarters building previously used for Atiku’s past presidential campaigns. Critics, including former party insiders, have raised concerns over the “wholesale” handover of the party’s machinery to the Atiku camp, leading to friction with other aspirants.
A Clash of Titans
Despite the “coronation” talk, Atiku faces a high-stakes primary. The ADC has become the preferred platform for several “Third Force” heavyweights, including former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi and former banker Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, both of whom have also picked up the ₦90 million forms.
While Atiku has expressed confidence in his ability to clinch the ticket, his challengers are banking on a desire for “fresh leadership” within the party.
Final Outing?
At 79, Atiku has signaled that the 2027 race will likely be his final quest for the presidency. With the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) fixing the presidential election for January 16, 2027, the coming weeks will determine if the ADC can truly unite these warring heavyweights into a cohesive opposition front.
Atiku is expected to meet with ADC state chairmen and stakeholders later tonight to consolidate his position ahead of Monday’s formal form collection.
