ADC Crisis Halts Makinde, Bala, Lawmakers’ Defections

Strong indications have emerged that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed may be reconsidering their planned defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) due to escalating internal disputes and regulatory uncertainty. The crisis has also affected several lawmakers who were weighing moves to the party, signaling a setback for opposition realignment ahead of the 2027 elections.

The uncertainty stems from the recent action of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which withdrew recognition of the ADC National Working Committee (NWC) led by Mark, following a ruling by the Court of Appeal on March 12, 2026. INEC directed all parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum pending the outcome of a substantive suit before the Federal High Court in Abuja, aiming to prevent actions that could influence the court’s final judgment.

Despite INEC’s directive, the Mark-led NWC rejected the decision and insisted it would proceed with the party’s April 14 national convention in Abuja, intensifying internal divisions between factions loyal to Mark and those aligned with Nafiu Gombe. The leadership tussle has created doubts among potential defectors about the party’s legal standing and operational stability.

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Governor Bala Mohammed, who chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, had earlier described the ADC as a “preferred destination” amid failed reconciliation efforts within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He reportedly held talks with a delegation led by former SGF Babachir Lawal, but his office confirmed he remains a member of the PDP while consultations continue.

Similarly, sources close to Governor Makinde suggested that his interest in the ADC has waned following INEC’s intervention. His media aide, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, dismissed claims that he is planning to leave the PDP, calling the reports “mere rumors.”

The ADC crisis has also left lawmakers in limbo. Mansur Soro, representing Darazo/Ganjuwa Federal Constituency, said consultations are ongoing, while Lagos lawmaker Jesse Onuakalusi declined to comment on his next move amid the uncertainty. Uchenna Okonkwo of Anambra State downplayed INEC’s action, expressing confidence that the dispute would be resolved legally and noting the influence of former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi on prospective defectors’ decisions.

Political analysts warn that the combination of internal party disputes, INEC intervention, and leadership uncertainty poses a significant hurdle to opposition consolidation ahead of the 2027 elections. The ADC’s ability to resolve its leadership conflict, secure regulatory recognition, and conduct a credible convention will be crucial for it to attract high-profile defections in the coming months.

ADC Crisis Halts Makinde, Bala, Lawmakers’ Defections

I Will Support Whoever Emerges as ADC Candidate — Atiku

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has reaffirmed his commitment to support whoever emerges as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate in the 2027 elections, stressing the need for unity within the opposition.

Speaking during an interview with DW Hausa, Atiku—himself a presidential aspirant on the ADC platform—said all contenders must rally behind the eventual flagbearer to strengthen the party’s chances. He noted that unlike previous contests with large numbers of aspirants, the ADC race remains relatively small and manageable, making consensus easier.

“We will support and endorse whoever emerges as the flag bearer,” he said, emphasizing that party unity is critical for electoral success.

The former Vice-President also addressed the controversy surrounding the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which recently announced it would halt further engagement with the ADC leadership and would not monitor the party’s scheduled April 14 national convention. INEC cited a court ruling for its position, but the ADC rejected the decision, insisting it was based on a misinterpretation and vowing to proceed with its planned activities.

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Reacting, Atiku dismissed fears that the development could weaken the party, arguing that the ADC continues to gain support nationwide. He alleged that vested political interests are behind the challenges facing the party, linking them to its growing popularity as an opposition platform.

Beyond internal politics, Atiku described the ADC as a youth-driven political movement, highlighting the increasing participation of young Nigerians in the party’s structure. According to him, many aspirants seeking positions from councillorship to the National Assembly are youths, reflecting a deliberate effort to promote youth inclusion in Nigerian politics.

He also expressed readiness to support a younger presidential candidate if elected, noting that leadership opportunities should be extended to the next generation.

“The youths have taken over the party… our role is to create the opportunity and hand it over to them,” he said.

On national issues, Atiku said Nigerians are increasingly frustrated by economic hardship, insecurity, and poor governance, adding that the country is approaching a critical turning point ahead of 2027.

He linked rising insecurity, particularly in northern Nigeria, to youth unemployment and lack of access to education, warning that continued neglect in these areas could worsen instability. He stressed that improving education and creating economic opportunities are essential to addressing the crisis.

The former Vice-President also raised concerns about corruption and weak accountability, alleging that authorities have not done enough to curb financial misconduct in government.

Despite these challenges, Atiku expressed confidence that Nigerians are ready for change, noting that growing dissatisfaction could shape voting patterns in the next general election.

Political observers believe Atiku’s stance signals a broader effort to position the ADC as a credible opposition platform, capable of attracting alliances and mounting a strong challenge in 2027. His pledge to support the eventual candidate is seen as a strategic move to avoid internal divisions and strengthen coalition-building efforts.

I Will Support Whoever Emerges as ADC Candidate — Atiku

Adeleke’s Aide Anisu Resigns, Defects to APC

A political tremor has hit Osun State as a Special Adviser to Governor Ademola Adeleke, identified as Anisu, has resigned his appointment and defected from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The development, which emerged on Saturday, has sparked widespread reactions within the state’s political space, with observers describing it as a potential shift in loyalty within the ruling circle of the Osun government.

Although details of his resignation letter were not immediately made public, sources within political circles hinted that the decision may not be unconnected to internal disagreements and realignments ahead of future political contests in the state.

Anisu, who served as one of the aides to the governor, was considered part of the grassroots political structure that contributed to the electoral success of the PDP in Osun. His defection is therefore seen by analysts as symbolically significant, even if its immediate electoral impact remains uncertain.

Supporters of the APC in Osun have since celebrated the move, describing it as a sign of growing acceptance of the party within the state. Some party loyalists took to social media to welcome the former aide, noting that his experience within government would strengthen the party’s strategy ahead of upcoming political engagements.

On the other hand, the PDP is yet to issue an official statement regarding the defection as of press time. However, party insiders have downplayed the development, insisting that it does not pose any serious threat to the administration of Governor Adeleke or the party’s dominance in the state.

Political analysts say defections are not unusual in Nigeria’s political landscape, where alignments often shift based on interests, strategy, and evolving power dynamics. They note that while individual defections may not immediately alter the balance of power, a consistent pattern could signal deeper cracks within a party.

The defection also comes amid ongoing political maneuvering across Nigeria, as parties continue to consolidate their bases and attract influential figures ahead of future elections.

Efforts to reach Anisu for comments on his decision were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.

Adeleke’s Aide Anisu Resigns, Defects to APC