ADC Faces Internal Crisis as Ego, Power Struggles Jeopardise 2027 Presidential Bid

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is battling internal divisions that threaten to derail its 2027 presidential ambitions.

Party insiders say the crisis is rooted in ego clashes, regional tensions, and a fierce struggle for control—factors that are weakening unity at a critical time.

Rather than consolidating ahead of the elections, the party is increasingly consumed by internal disputes. Sources told Saturday Vanguard that mistrust and competing interests among top figures are hindering progress.

“These are the real issues. It’s ego, it’s power, and it’s also about where the ticket should go. That’s what is tearing them (leading presidential aspirants) apart,” a senior insider said.

Power Struggle Among Key Figures

Two former governors have emerged as central players in the unfolding crisis. Their rivalry, described as strategic and deeply personal, is said to be obstructing consensus-building.

One is reportedly opposed to a Southeast presidential candidate, a position that has intensified concerns about ethnic bias.

“He (the ex-governor) has never hidden it. He believes certain regions should not produce the president at this time, and that has become a serious issue,” a source said.

The other is seen as aggressively pursuing the ticket, claiming he has the strongest support base in the North.

“He presumes everything is about him. He believes he is the only one who can win, and that the North will rally behind him more than anyone else,” another insider said, noting that he overrates himself.

Internal Friction Deepens

The conflict extends beyond top contenders. Long-standing members are increasingly uneasy about the influence of new entrants.

“Some members are asking: ‘We built this structure, how do people just come in at the last minute and take over?’” a source said.

“This is not just about individual. It’s about ownership of the party and who controls its future,” another added.

Public Appeal vs Party Reality

Despite strong public support for some aspirants, insiders warn that internal backing remains uncertain.

“Popularity outside is not the same as acceptance inside. What you see in the public space is different from what is happening within the party,” one source said.

Time Running Short

With elections approaching, concerns are growing over the party’s readiness.

“There is no time. They are still fighting among themselves when they should be consolidating,” a source said.

Umeh Speaks Out

Senator Victor Umeh raised concerns about prolonged political ambition.

“I was thinking he (Atiku) would be at the point where he would be considering leaving the stage for younger people, but he said he is contesting.

“He has been running since 2003. We respect him, he is a strong politician with influence. But there is a time you say, ‘I’ve done it, let me prop up others’,” he said.

He warned:

“If they go all out to wrestle, it may get to a point where some people will have a bloody nose, and the party will suffer.”

On reported negotiations, he clarified:

“This is a season for consultations. It is normal for people aspiring for the same office to talk to each other. Obi’s visit (to Amaechi) was a noble one with good intentions. They were not discussing stepping down.”

Analyst Warns of Collapse Risk

Political analyst Kenny Okolugbo said the party must manage competing ambitions carefully.

“The ADC should learn from what the APC did with the merger, a merger many thought was impossible.

“But you have to give it to President Tinubu: he sacrificed his vice-presidential ambition because he realised that if he didn’t, they would not be able to go into those elections and defeat Goodluck Jonathan,” he said.

He added:

“Now, the ADC can only succeed, in my view as a public affairs analyst, if the ticket is given to Peter Obi and he runs with someone like Kwankwaso. The moment Atiku gets that ticket, then they would have self-imploded. And that’s the reality of the situation.”

Zoning and Strategy

Okolugbo also pointed to Nigeria’s zoning tradition.

“We have had these unwritten agreements that the North will have power for some time and the South will have it for some time.

“Therefore, if you have to challenge him, you must get somebody from the South-South. And the strongest candidate right now who can cut across is former Governor Peter Obi.”

He added:

“If Kwankwaso joins Obi and agrees to a four-year arrangement, then he could have a real shot in 2031. But everything depends on how well ambitions are managed within the ADC.”

Emerging Alliances

New political alignments are also reshaping the landscape. The Obi–Kwankwaso Movement is gaining attention across multiple blocs.

Its spokesperson, Justin Ijeh, said:
“This is more than a political milestone; it is the birth of a coordinated, nationwide engine for systemic reform and national rebirth.

“The movement is a home for all well-meaning Nigerians. We reject the politics of tribalism, regionalism, and religious sentiment.”

Uncertainty and Exit Options

Amid growing uncertainty, some aspirants are reportedly considering alternatives.

“Some of the leading presidential aspirants are already thinking of Plan B. That tells you the level of uncertainty,” a source said.

A Defining Moment

With internal divisions deepening, the ADC faces a critical test. Observers warn that unless the party resolves its internal conflicts quickly, its chances in the 2027 presidential race could be severely compromised.

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