Paul Ibe, spokesperson to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has addressed growing concerns over reported tensions among top opposition leaders in the newly formed African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition ahead of the 2027 elections.
In an interview, Ibe said the question of who emerges as the coalition’s presidential flagbearer between Atiku, Peter Obi, and Rotimi Amaechi will be decided through a democratic process by the party’s delegates.
“Democracy has taken its course. Whether through direct or indirect primaries, the delegates will determine who flies the ADC flag in 2027,” Ibe said.
The clarification comes amid speculation of a power tussle within the coalition following public declarations by Obi and Amaechi to contest on the ADC platform, just days after Atiku himself helped launch the alliance.
Supporters of each aspirant have since ignited a heated online and political debate, fuelling rumors of cracks within the newly formed alliance. But Ibe downplayed the idea of disunity, stating that such debates are normal in a thriving democracy.
“This is not about a fight between Atiku, Obi, and Amaechi. What you’re seeing is their supporters jostling for space,” he explained.
He reminded Nigerians that the coalition was formed on a foundation of mutual understanding and shared sacrifice among its leaders, and that internal contests are a natural part of democratic growth.
“People seem to forget what democracy means. We’re coming from years of political suppression under Tinubu’s administration, where the country is gradually sliding into a one-party state. In a true democracy, people have the right to aspire,” he added.
Ibe concluded by urging supporters to focus on promoting their preferred candidates while trusting the ADC’s constitutional framework to guide the party through a transparent nomination process.
