Why Peter Obi and El-Rufai Are Yet to Officially Join ADC – Party Spokesman

The Interim National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Bolaji Abdullahi, has clarified why former presidential candidate Peter Obi and ex-Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai have not yet formally joined the party.

Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja over the weekend, Abdullahi explained that both leaders were granted time to complete ongoing electoral processes within their previous political parties before making an official move.

“They were given the opportunity to finalise pending elections, including by-elections and the selection of governorship candidates within their legacy parties,” Abdullahi said.

He reassured supporters that both Obi and El-Rufai remain committed to the emerging ADC-led opposition coalition and are expected to formally align with the party once those internal processes are concluded.

Addressing concerns about the party’s internal democracy, Abdullahi stressed that ADC is committed to a transparent and inclusive process for selecting its candidates.

“We have no hidden agenda or preferred candidate. Everyone will have a fair chance in the race for the party’s ticket,” he affirmed.

He also dismissed reports of legal troubles within the party, stating: “We are confident in the legality of every step we have taken. We made sure we closed all loopholes the ruling party might try to use against us.”

The ADC has recently gained traction as a platform for key opposition figures ahead of the 2027 general elections, positioning itself as a potential challenger to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).