Key opposition figures within the African Democratic Congress are reportedly stepping up contingency plans, with many now considering the Peoples Redemption Party as an alternative platform ahead of crucial electoral deadlines.
This shift comes amid a protracted leadership crisis that has engulfed the ADC, with multiple court cases casting doubt over the party’s legitimacy as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.
A major factor driving the urgency is the timeline set by the Independent National Electoral Commission for the submission of party membership registers. The commission has fixed May 10 as the deadline, a requirement that determines eligibility for participation in party primaries.
Under the Electoral Act, only individuals listed in a party’s membership register before submission are qualified to contest in primaries, making early alignment with a recognised platform essential.
Confirming ongoing talks, PRP National Chairman, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, disclosed that several opposition figures have initiated discussions with his party, noting that the PRP is open to accommodating new entrants seeking a viable political platform.
At the heart of the ADC’s internal crisis is a leadership dispute involving David Mark and opposing factions contesting his emergence. The situation has resulted in multiple legal battles, including cases before the Supreme Court of Nigeria, weakened party structures across states, and rival groups laying claim to leadership.
The crisis has further deepened following INEC’s withdrawal of recognition for the Mark-led leadership in compliance with court rulings, leaving the party’s organisational structure in disarray.
In recent months, the ADC had attracted prominent political figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rauf Aregbesola. However, sources indicate that many of them are now weighing alternative options due to the lingering legal uncertainty.
The situation is expected to reach a decisive stage as the Supreme Court prepares to hear key appeals related to the ADC dispute. The court has scheduled April 22 for an accelerated hearing, a development widely seen as critical in determining control of the party.
Meanwhile, a similar leadership tussle within the Peoples Democratic Party is also before the apex court, raising concerns about wider instability across Nigeria’s opposition space.
Amid the unfolding developments, the PRP has openly invited opposition actors to join its fold. Lagos State Chairman of the party, James Adeshina, warned that the crisis within the ADC poses a threat to opposition cohesion.
“At a time when the country needs a strong and united opposition, internal divisions like this only weaken democratic competition,” he said.
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