Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has formally joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), signaling a major shift in Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections. Atiku received his ADC membership card on Monday at his Jada 1 Ward in Adamawa State, ending months of speculation following his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Speaking moments after the ceremony, Atiku declared: “Now I have picked up my membership card of the ADC. Now, the real opposition has begun. We will chase the APC out of government.” He urged his supporters nationwide to register with the ADC immediately, describing the party as a “new political front” capable of reshaping Nigeria’s democratic trajectory.
Adamawa State ADC Chairman, Shehu Yohanna, who coordinated Atiku’s registration, said the former vice president’s entry officially launches statewide registration campaigns across all local governments and wards. He called on Nigerians, particularly women and youths, to join the party and actively participate in shaping the nation’s future.
The National Secretary of the ADC Registration and Mobilisation Committee, Senator Sadiq Yar’Adua, echoed Atiku’s message, urging citizens to register, vote, and “take ownership of the nation’s political future.”
The event drew several high-profile political figures from Adamawa State, signaling what observers describe as a significant political realignment. Among those present were former Governor Bindow Jibrilla, Senators Aishatu Binani, Ahmed Barata, Aziz Nyako, and Ishaku Abbo.
Atiku resigned from the PDP in July, citing concerns that the party had strayed from its founding principles and failed to provide credible opposition to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). His move to the ADC is seen as a strategic repositioning, giving him a new platform to consolidate support ahead of the 2027 presidential race.
Political analysts note that Atiku’s shift could influence party alignments across northern and eastern Nigeria, potentially reshaping electoral strategies as the nation approaches the next general elections. With the ADC positioning itself as a viable alternative, Atiku’s membership is likely to accelerate party growth and grassroots mobilisation.
In addition to bolstering the ADC’s profile, Atiku emphasized that the party’s mission extends beyond contesting elections: it seeks to promote transparency, inclusivity, and effective governance. “This is not just about winning elections,” he said. “It is about building a new Nigeria where the people’s voices are heard and their rights protected.”
Atiku’s move marks one of the most high-profile defections in recent Nigerian political history, underscoring growing fluidity among political elites as the country edges closer to the 2027 elections. His entry into the ADC sets the stage for a potentially transformative political contest, with major implications for both the APC and PDP.
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