Atiku Delays ADC Membership Move as 2027 Election Rumours Swirl Around Jonathan’s Possible Comeback
Story: written by Okafor Joseph August 10,2025
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has delayed plans to formally join the African Democratic Congress (ADC) amid intense political speculation that former President Goodluck Jonathan may contest the 2027 presidential election under the party’s platform.
Atiku, who recently resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) after prolonged internal wrangling, was expected to receive his ADC membership card at a ceremony in his hometown of Jada, Adamawa State, on Wednesday, August 6. However, the event has now been postponed indefinitely without an official explanation from his camp.
According to ADC sources, Atiku shifted the event to mid-August to allow some All Progressives Congress (APC) governors, reportedly planning to defect to the ADC, to make their moves first. There are also reports of discreet talks between the ADC and Jonathan, raising questions about the party’s presidential ticket.
Tensions Over Atiku, Obi, and Jonathan
A senior ADC figure revealed that internal tensions have emerged over control of the party structure, particularly in southern Nigeria, where supporters of Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate, are said to have significant influence. This development is viewed as a potential threat to Atiku’s presidential ambitions.
The source suggested that if the situation remains unresolved, Atiku could consider joining the Social Democratic Party (SDP). It was further claimed that the recent suspension of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai from the SDP was linked to fears of Atiku forming a powerful political bloc within the party.
Meanwhile, some Atiku support groups within the ADC have reportedly expressed willingness to exit the party if the leadership continues to pursue Jonathan’s candidacy. Party insiders claim that discussions with the former president are progressing positively and that he may run for office on the ADC platform rather than return to the PDP.
“We are talking to him, and so far, the response is encouraging,” one insider said. “He knows the PDP’s internal problems and may prefer to avoid a power struggle with party heavyweights. Jonathan is a gentleman and a refined politician who wants to help rescue the country from economic hardship caused by current government policies.”
Although Jonathan’s campaign posters—featuring potential running mates like Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal and former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso—have surfaced online, his wife Patience Jonathan has publicly ruled out his return to the presidency, instead pledging support for First Lady Oluremi Tinubu in 2027.
Atiku’s Camp Denies Delay Linked to Jonathan
Atiku’s media aide, Paul Ibe, dismissed claims that the delay in his ADC membership formalisation is linked to the party’s alleged talks with Jonathan. He maintained that Atiku’s registration process is ongoing and unchanged.
“Nothing has changed. Atiku Abubakar is a democrat and welcomes competition. He will not be threatened by anyone’s ambition, whether Jonathan or any other candidate. The beauty of democracy is that everyone can contest, and Nigerians can decide,” Ibe said.
He stressed that Atiku’s focus is on building a coalition capable of defeating the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027. “The more credible candidates in the race, the better for democracy. Atiku’s priority is to offer Nigerians an alternative to the APC’s governance,” he added.
As political manoeuvring intensifies, the ADC’s eventual choice of a presidential flagbearer could reshape the 2027 race, with Atiku, Jonathan, and other influential figures potentially in the mix.
