Atiku Meets ADP Leaders as Opposition Parties Intensify 2027 Talks

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has held a high-level consultative meeting with the leadership of the Action Democratic Party (ADP) at his Abuja residence, amid growing political manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The meeting was confirmed by ADP National Chairman, Yabagi Yusuf Sani, who said it formed part of the party’s ongoing engagement with key democratic stakeholders.

According to Sani, discussions centred on protecting democratic pluralism, strengthening opposition stability, and ensuring credible electoral choices for Nigerians.

He dismissed speculations that the meeting was aimed at merging parties or recruiting individuals into ADP, stressing that it was simply part of broader consultations.

“ADP remains focused on institutional stability, constitutionalism, and keeping credible options open for Nigerians,” Sani said, adding that any future decisions would be taken transparently and communicated formally.

Despite the denial, analysts note that the meeting comes amid rumours of a possible Peter Obi–Rabiu Kwankwaso alliance to contest on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), fuelling speculation of strategic pre-election alignments.

ADC Accuses APC of Coercing Civil Servants

Meanwhile, the ADC has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of forcing civil servants and government workers in several states to participate in its ongoing e-registration exercise.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party described the alleged practice as economic coercion and a violation of the constitutional right to freedom of association.

The ADC claimed workers were being pressured to register with the APC as a condition for job security, career progression, or continued livelihood.

The party warned that such actions threaten the neutrality and professionalism of the civil service, calling on authorities, civil society groups, labour unions, and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission to intervene.

Otti: Labour Party Still Strong Without Obi

In another development, Abia State Governor Alex Otti said the Labour Party (LP) remains strong despite the departure of its former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who officially joined ADC on December 31.

Speaking at the party’s National Working Committee meeting in Abuja, Otti acknowledged that the LP had lost some members through defections but insisted it remains a formidable force.

He announced plans to establish a reconciliation committee to engage aggrieved members and encourage their return, while also outlining preparations for congresses ahead of the party’s national convention.

Otti also stated that the Labour Party has no intention of joining any coalition, describing the party itself as “a coalition.”

PDP Steps Up Unity Drive Ahead of 2027

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has also intensified efforts to restore cohesion and build alliances ahead of the next elections.

Caretaker National Vice-Chairman (South-South), Emmanuel Ogidi, said the PDP remains determined to reposition itself as Nigeria’s leading opposition despite internal disagreements.

Ogidi accused the APC of prioritising electoral victories over governance, warning that continued weakening of democratic institutions could destabilise the country.

He said the PDP’s focus ahead of 2027 would be defending democracy, promoting unity, and offering Nigerians a credible alternative.