There are strong indications that the presidential candidate of the opposition coalition, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), may emerge toward the end of May, with party leaders favouring a consensus arrangement.
Senior figures within the party, who spoke anonymously on Monday, dismissed reports suggesting a breakdown in communication over the selection process. They clarified that formal deliberations on the party’s presidential candidate have yet to begin.
According to one source, the coalition is determined to avoid internal divisions. “We have agreed that the issue of selecting a presidential standard-bearer will not be allowed to fracture the coalition. Our opponents expect that outcome, but we are confident of staying united,” the source said. The official added that the United Opposition Movement is committed to achieving a consensus candidate, describing it as the most cost-effective approach. A direct primary, the source noted, would only be considered if consensus proves unattainable.
Another party insider attributed the delay in discussions to an ongoing case before the Supreme Court. “Claims that a decision has already been made on a consensus candidate are unfounded and amount to propaganda. No formal talks have started. Stakeholders are awaiting the court’s ruling,” the source stated, adding that differing opinions within the party should not be misconstrued as division.
Despite these assurances, investigations indicate that the framework for selecting a candidate has already been outlined. The process is expected to begin with attempts to reach consensus by evaluating aspirants based on their electoral viability, particularly their ability to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Zoning considerations, though traditionally significant in Nigerian politics, have reportedly been downplayed by the ADC, with party leaders yet to clarify their position. Nonetheless, aspirants are expected from both the northern and southern regions of the country.
Prominent figures linked to the ADC presidential ticket include former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi; the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso; and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi.
Meanwhile, the Grassroots Mobilisation Network (GMN), a support group aligned with the ADC, has criticised the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, over remarks it claims suggest support for individuals previously expelled from the party.
In a statement issued in Abuja and signed by Idris Bala Musa, the group alleged that Gbajabiamila expressed backing for Bala Nafiu and Honourable Leke Abejide in efforts to regain influence within the ADC. The individuals were expelled following the party’s last national convention over alleged anti-party activities.
GMN described the reported comments as troubling, warning that they could signal undue interference in opposition politics. The group called on Nigerians to defend democratic principles and resist any attempts to destabilise opposition parties ahead of future elections.
Citing Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of association, as well as provisions of the Electoral Act on party autonomy, GMN argued that any attempt to impose candidates or influence internal party affairs would undermine Nigeria’s democratic framework.