ADC Unveils New Abuja Secretariat, Clarifies Absence of Atiku, Obi and Dismisses Coalition Rift Rumours

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Monday commissioned its new national secretariat in Abuja, though two major opposition figures the party has been openly courting—former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi—were noticeably absent.

The building, which previously housed Atiku’s presidential campaign office during the last election cycle, has now been taken over by the ADC. Clarifying the circumstances, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, stressed that the inauguration should not be interpreted as a sign of political realignment among opposition blocs.

“Atiku was simply a tenant here during his campaign. His tenancy has expired, and the ADC has taken over the premises. This has nothing to do with our wider political movement. It is strictly an internal ADC decision,” Abdullahi said.

He assured party members that the ADC remained committed to fairness and unity ahead of its February congresses, noting that internal justice and cohesion had helped the coalition avoid the crises seen in other parties.

Abdullahi also addressed ongoing speculation surrounding the roles of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, and Peter Obi in the coalition. He explained that both had been given till the conclusion of the Anambra governorship election to clarify their positions.

“With the election now over, we expect full engagement from everyone. The leadership arrangements remain unchanged from the coalition’s original structure,” he added.

The ADC has been pressing its coalition partners to formally resign from their respective parties and register fully under the ADC banner—an instruction that some influential members have resisted. Obi had earlier stated that he would declare his decision only after the November 8 Anambra poll.

Speaking at the unveiling, ADC National Chairman, Senator David Mark, described the new headquarters as a symbol of the coalition’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s political landscape.

“This building represents our shared determination to build a better nation. The ADC coalition was born out of the people’s demand for accountable leadership, effective governance, and a stronger democracy,” Mark said.

He noted that the secretariat would serve as a strategic hub for developing policies, nurturing leadership, and driving national reform.

“From here, we will continue to craft ideas and champion initiatives that uplift communities, fortify institutions, and strengthen the democratic pillars of our republic,” he added.