Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has formally joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), marking a significant realignment in the nation’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The announcement was made on Monday after Atiku received his ADC membership card in Jada Ward 1, Jada Local Government Area of Adamawa State, his home constituency.
Atiku, who resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in July 2025 following prolonged internal crises, described his move to the ADC as the beginning of a new political chapter. Addressing party members and supporters in Adamawa, he stated, “In Nigeria as a whole, there is a new political movement. Today, the new movement has taken us to the ADC. So, the people of Adamawa and Nigeria, our new party is ADC and our new leaders in Adamawa are here seated.”
The event drew a large crowd of enthusiastic supporters, community leaders, and party stalwarts. Videos and images from the scene showed jubilant supporters waving placards, beating drums, and chanting as Atiku’s convoy arrived. The former Vice President shared photos of himself holding his membership card on his official X account with the caption, “It’s official – AA”.
Atiku’s defection is widely seen as a strategic move to consolidate opposition forces ahead of the 2027 elections. His entry into the ADC is expected to strengthen the party’s national profile and attract a broad coalition of supporters dissatisfied with the current state of Nigeria’s major political parties. Analysts note that Atiku’s decision underscores his continued ambition to play a central role in shaping Nigeria’s democratic future.
The ADC leadership in Adamawa welcomed Atiku warmly, pledging full support for his vision of building a stronger, more inclusive political platform. Party officials emphasized that his presence would energize grassroots mobilization and expand the ADC’s reach across Nigeria.
Atiku Abubakar, 77, has long been a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, with a career spanning decades and multiple presidential bids. His latest move adds another chapter to his history of political realignments, reflecting both his resilience and adaptability in the country’s evolving political environment.