As Nigeria’s opposition parties begin to realign ahead of the 2027 general elections, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is shaping up as a major political force aiming to unseat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Among the emerging power players in this united front are four political heavyweights, each with decades of political experience and a desire to lead Nigeria at a critical turning point.
Below are the top four likely presidential contenders within the ADC Coalition fold,
1. Atiku Abubakar — Veteran of Presidential Contests
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar remains a towering figure in Nigeria’s opposition politics, with a track record of multiple presidential bids dating back to 1993. Atiku, who served as Nigeria’s vice president from 1999 to 2007 under President Olusegun Obasanjo, has sought the presidency under various party platforms, including the PDP, AC, and APC.
His first major attempt came in 1993, when he contested the presidential primaries of the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Though he lost to Moshood Abiola and Baba Gana Kingibe, it marked the beginning of a long-running political journey to the presidency. In 2007, Atiku ran under the Action Congress (AC) against Umaru Musa Yar’Adua of the PDP, but failed. Undeterred, he returned to the PDP in 2011, hoping to get the presidential ticket, but was defeated in the primaries by then-incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan. Ahead of the 2015 elections, Atiku joined the newly formed All Progressives Congress (APC) and contested for its presidential ticket, but lost to General Muhammadu Buhari. He later rejoined the PDP and secured the party’s nomination in 2019 and 2023, but was defeated in both general elections, first by Buhari and most recently by President Bola Tinubu.
Despite his defeat in the 2023 presidential election as the PDP candidate, Atiku has not ruled out another attempt. Though he is yet to formally declare his 2027 ambition, his continued relevance within opposition circles positions him as a formidable contender should the ADC Coalition pick him for the top job.
2. Peter Obi — The One-Term Advocate
Peter Obi, a former governor of Anambra State and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, made a strong outing in the last general election, galvanising youth support through the 'Obidient Movement'. His campaign redefined third-force politics in Nigeria, positioning him as a major challenger to the APC and PDP.
Now aligning with the ADC-led opposition coalition, Obi has reportedly submitted a proposal offering to serve just one term if elected president in 2027. While he has not officially left the Labour Party, his active engagement with the coalition suggests he may contest under the party.
3. Rotimi Amaechi — The South-South Challenger
Rotimi Amaechi brings experience from both legislative and executive arms of government, having served as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, a two-term governor, and minister under the Buhari administration. His 2022 presidential bid under the APC was cut short when he lost the primaries to Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria's incumbent president.
Now considered a key figure in the ADC Coalition, Amaechi has also signalled willingness to serve only a single term as president, a move seen by many as a strategy to build consensus and balance regional interests.
4. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal
Aminu Tambuwal is one of the most seasoned politicians still in active service. A former Speaker of the House of Representatives and two-term governor of Sokoto State, he currently represents Sokoto South in the Senate. Though he stepped down for Atiku in the 2022 PDP primaries, his political stature and influence across party lines make him a strong possibility for the coalition ticket. He may emerge as either a presidential or vice-presidential candidate, depending on the coalition’s power-sharing dynamics.
Looking Ahead to 2027
As the ADC Coalition prepares to challenge the APC's grip on power, these four figures represent the most prominent presidential hopefuls within the emerging opposition front. Whether the coalition settles on a consensus candidate or holds internal primaries, the coming months will be crucial in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of 2027.
0 Comments