In a significant political manoeuvre ahead of the 2027 general elections, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has launched a bold campaign to recruit some of Nigeria's most prominent political figures. The party aims to build a formidable opposition coalition capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
ADC's High-Profile Recruitment Drive
The party's leadership, through its factional national chairman, Nafiu Gombe, issued a direct appeal on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. This followed the inauguration of the ADC's North-East zonal congress committee in Gombe State on Sunday, January 11. The event, presided over by Muhammad Muhammad, was described as part of a renewed push to strengthen internal democracy and reposition the party for national leadership.
In a communiqué, Gombe passionately invited a select group of eminent Nigerians to join the ADC. The party believes their experience and patriotism are crucial for its mission to "rebuild and reposition Nigeria." This development underscores the ADC's determination to democratically oust President Bola Tinubu and the APC in the next polls.
The Full List of Political Heavyweights Courted by ADC
The ADC's wishlist includes a mix of serving governors, former presidents, and key lawmakers, indicating a strategy to draw strength from across the political spectrum. The individuals specifically named are:
- Goodluck Jonathan, former President of Nigeria.
- Bukola Saraki, former Senate President.
- Seyi Makinde, incumbent Governor of Oyo State.
- Alex Otti, incumbent Governor of Abia State.
- Bala Mohammed, incumbent Governor of Bauchi State.
- Ahmadu Fintiri, incumbent Governor of Adamawa State.
- Godswill Akpabio, incumbent Senate President.
This move is seen as a direct attempt to weaken other major opposition parties, particularly the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), from where many of these figures hail. The ADC's coalition is actively seeking to strengthen opposition collaboration before the 2027 elections.
Clarifications and the Road to 2027
Amidst this recruitment drive, the ADC has had to contend with speculation. Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar'Adua, representing Katsina Central, publicly denied rumours of his defection to the ADC. In a statement on his official X handle, he reaffirmed his commitment to the APC, clarifying that not everyone with the Yar'Adua surname is politically aligned with him.
The ADC's aggressive outreach marks a new twist in the evolving landscape of Nigerian politics. By targeting sitting governors and former heads of state, the party is signalling its ambition to be a major player and a credible alternative. Whether these high-profile figures will accept the invitation remains a central question as the countdown to the 2027 election intensifies.
