ADC Will Bleed, Members Will Walk Out If Atiku Wins Presidential Ticket — Baba-Ahmed
Abuja, Nigeria — A major political storm is brewing within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as senior party figure Baba-Ahmed has warned that the party may suffer severe internal damage if former Vice President Atiku Abubakar emerges as its presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during a political discussion on Tuesday, Baba-Ahmed declared that the ADC risks losing its identity, credibility, and membership base should it align itself with what he described as “old political structures that Nigerians are tired of.”
In a strongly worded statement, Baba-Ahmed said:
“If Atiku gets the ADC ticket, this party will bleed. Members will walk out. Many will not stay to witness the destruction of what we have built.”
He argued that the party was founded on principles of fresh leadership, innovation, and alternatives to Nigeria’s long-standing political figures. According to him, bringing Atiku into the fold contradicts that mission.
Baba-Ahmed stressed that ADC risks becoming indistinguishable from other traditional parties if it aligns with high-profile political elites seeking new platforms.
He added:
- Many ADC stalwarts believe Atiku represents the same old political cycle
- The party’s youth-driven base may withdraw support
- Public perception could shift negatively
- Grassroots members want a new, younger candidate
Though Atiku Abubakar has not formally announced plans to join ADC, reports and internal whispers suggest he has been in talks with several smaller parties after internal disagreements in the PDP.
Political analysts believe Atiku may be exploring alternatives to remain on the ballot should the PDP crisis deepen.
The rumours alone have already triggered sharp divisions within the ADC.
While the ADC national leadership has not endorsed any presidential contender, insiders say they are concerned about the escalating tensions.
A senior party official, who asked not to be named, said:
“We are in consultations. We know the fears being raised. No decision has been made yet.”
Several ADC youth leaders and regional coordinators have echoed Baba-Ahmed’s warning, insisting they will not support a “recycled candidate.”
Some have threatened to:
- Form a breakaway faction
- Back a younger, more progressive aspirant
- Join other emerging political coalitions
This has raised concerns that the ADC could face internal fractures similar to those seen in other opposition parties in recent years.
Political observers say the ADC is at a critical crossroads:
- Accepting Atiku could boost national visibility and funding
- Rejecting him maintains ideological consistency but reduces electoral strength
- Internal conflict could undermine the party before the campaign season even begins
Analyst Dr. Haruna Yusuf noted:
“This is a test of whether ADC wants power at any cost or wants to preserve its identity.”
The former Vice President has not commented on Baba-Ahmed’s threat, though his media aides insist he remains focused on national unity and political stability.
With election season approaching and political alignments shifting rapidly, the ADC’s decision regarding its presidential ticket may determine whether the party rises as a stronger force — or fractures under pressure.
For now, Baba-Ahmed’s warning has ignited a conversation that could reshape the party’s future.
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