The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has reiterated its firm commitment to an open, transparent, and competitive process for selecting its presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections, with no zoning of the ticket to any geopolitical zone.
This position was clearly stated by Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, former Governor of Kaduna State and a prominent chieftain of the ADC, during a recent interview on Trust TV’s 30 Minutes.
El-Rufai emphasized that the party will reject traditional zoning arrangements, imposed consensus candidates, or any mechanisms designed to force aspirants to step down.
He declared: “We will not have zoning. We will not have any of that thing.
No consensus, no forcing anyone to step down. Everyone will be given the opportunity to contest, and whoever wins will be supported by all.”
El-Rufai’s statement aligns with the broader stance of the ADC, which is positioning itself as a credible opposition platform through democratic principles and meritocracy.
The party’s approach prioritizes competence, credibility, and nationwide electability over regional considerations.
This position follows earlier advocacy by the ADC State Chairmen Forum, which in January 2026 urged the National Working Committee to avoid zoning the presidential ticket.
The chairman described zoning as counterproductive, arguing it would limit the party’s appeal, exclude capable aspirants from other regions, and amount to self-sabotage ahead of the 2027 polls.
The ADC remains focused on grassroots mobilization, building a strong coalition, and developing a manifesto centered on ethical governance, national unity, and inclusive development. By embracing open primaries, the party aims to produce a candidate who can command broad support across Nigeria and offer voters a genuine alternative in the next general election.
The African Democratic Congress calls on all Nigerians to join in this effort to strengthen democracy through fair competition and respect for the collective will of party members and the electorate