2027: ADC Engages Kwankwaso Declines Presidential Ticket Offer

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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has established a high-level committee to engage prominent political figures across opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

A senior party official, speaking to The PUNCH on condition of anonymity, revealed that the committee’s work is not confined to any one party, as the ADC seeks to foster broad opposition collaboration nationwide in preparation for the polls.

This initiative comes amid reports that the ADC is in talks with notable political leaders, especially the national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to potentially join its platform.

Last Saturday in Kano, Kwankwaso indicated his willingness to align with any opposition coalition that could offer him either the presidential or vice-presidential slot. He made the comments while addressing supporters amid speculation over a possible defection by Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, outlining conditions for any prospective alliance.

An ADC source confirmed to Sunday PUNCH that the party has already set up structures to manage engagements discreetly.

“It is meant to facilitate proper discussions across all party ranks, although this is not intended for public disclosure,” the source explained.
“We are not focusing on a single party or individual, but rather keeping an open dialogue with all relevant actors.”

Another senior ADC insider confirmed that National Chairman David Mark had informed the Kwankwaso camp that the party would not promise either the presidential or vice-presidential ticket.

“It was explicitly stated that neither the presidential nor vice-presidential positions would be guaranteed by the party leadership to anyone,” the source added.

In July 2025, the ADC emerged as the chosen coalition platform for opposition figures aiming to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027. Under the leadership of David Mark as National Chairman and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary, the party has since intensified efforts to strengthen its nationwide structures and public appeal.

Several prominent opposition leaders have already joined the ADC. Former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi became a member in July, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar joined in November, and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi aligned with the party on December 31.

A party insider said the ADC is exploring the idea of an inclusive government that could accommodate Kwankwaso and his supporters through strategic appointments rather than offering ticket guarantees.

“Since Kwankwaso expressed his willingness to work with the ADC, the leadership has been actively planning how to integrate him,” the source said.
“The party is keen to bring him on board but will not operate on assumptions or promises that cannot be kept.”

According to the source, the ADC’s plan focuses on an inclusive government structure where all stakeholders receive fair representation.

Another ADC official revealed that while the party will not provide Kwankwaso with a presidential or vice-presidential ticket, Chairman David Mark is expected to engage him personally to discuss alternative arrangements.

“No one can promise the presidency or vice-presidency under current party realities,” the source noted.
“However, the National Chairman can negotiate positions such as ministerial appointments, National Assembly leadership roles, and even the office of Secretary to the Government of the Federation.”

The source added that a dedicated committee has been tasked with deliberating these arrangements and reaching timely resolutions.

Insiders said the ADC leadership remains hopeful that Kwankwaso will eventually join the party to challenge the APC government in 2027.

When contacted, ADC spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi declined to comment specifically on the committee’s existence.
He did, however, emphasize that the party is committed to expanding its membership.

“ADC is here to stay, and we are leaving no stone unturned to grow our membership and remove the APC from power,” Abdullahi said.

Reacting, NNPP Publicity Secretary Oladipo Johnson confirmed that Kwankwaso and the party are consulting with other political groups, but he did not mention the ADC directly.

“I cannot comment on that specifically, but consultations are ongoing,” Johnson said.
“Our national leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, is engaging with all relevant stakeholders across the country.
“At the right time, an official statement will be released to clarify our position.”