Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has raised alarm over an alleged plan to prevent the African Democratic Congress from appearing on the ballot in the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku claimed that certain elements within the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are plotting to use political and legal tactics to sideline the opposition party.
He urged supporters and Nigerians at large to resist any attempt to determine which opposition parties are allowed to participate in the next election.
Atiku argued that while the ruling party may try to undermine democracy, it would not have the final say.
“We are fully aware of their plots. While they seek to create confusion within the opposition, we know their real target is the ADC because it stands as the most credible alternative.
“We call on all Nigerians—not just ADC members and supporters—to defend democracy and reject any attempt by the ruling party to handpick which opposition parties can contest in the next general election.
“Our message to the APC and those plotting in secret is simple: you may conspire, but you will not succeed. If the APC is truly confident in its popularity, why is it so afraid of the ADC?” he said.
The warning from Atiku Abubakar comes amid growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the African Democratic Congress emerging as a key opposition platform.
In recent months, opposition figures have intensified talks around coalition-building to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress, fueling speculation about possible attempts to weaken rival parties before the polls.
Atiku’s concerns follow earlier controversies over party deregistration and legal battles involving opposition groups, raising fears among supporters about political interference and the shrinking space for democratic competition in the lead-up to 2027.
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