Top presidential hopefuls under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have agreed in principle to sign a unity pact to support whoever emerges as the party’s flagbearer in the 2027 general election.
Former Transportation Minister, Rotimi Amaechi, confirmed the agreement in an exclusive interview, noting that the deal hinges on the conduct of a fair and transparent presidential primary.
The ADC, which recently welcomed big names like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Labour Party candidate Peter Obi, and others into its coalition, has been at the centre of political attention ahead of 2027.
Amaechi said, “What we agreed is that whoever emerges from a transparent primary will be supported by everyone. But we must first agree on what ‘transparent’ means.”
His comments follow rising internal competition and speculation that the party may favour a northern candidate, especially Atiku. Former ADC candidate Dumebi Kachikwu had earlier alleged that the ticket was being tailored for Atiku, though the party leadership has denied any bias.
The party’s interim chairman, Senator David Mark, recently assured Nigerians that the ADC would be fair and has no preferred candidate. He stressed that the primaries would be transparent and inclusive.
While Amaechi, Obi, and Atiku have all hinted at their 2027 ambitions, others like ex-Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai have ruled themselves out of the race.
However, ADC spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi said he was unaware of any formal unity agreement but reiterated the party’s commitment to a level playing field for all aspirants.
The ADC’s presidential primary is expected to be one of the most closely watched events in the build-up to the 2027 elections, especially as Nigerians look for alternatives to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and main opposition, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).