ADC Considers Consensus Option for 2027 Presidential Candidate

ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi

The African Democratic Congress has said it is considering adopting a consensus approach in selecting its presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, as part of efforts to streamline its internal process.

The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, disclosed this during an appearance on a television programme, noting that the party is weighing its options between direct primaries and consensus.

He explained that indirect primaries are no longer being considered, stating that they are “no longer on the table” in line with provisions of the amended Electoral Act.

Abdullahi said the party is leaning towards consensus because of its practicality and lower financial burden. “We are trying as much as possible to adopt the consensus approach because that is the least costly for us,” he said.

He added, “For us, the best-case scenario is to be able to engineer consensus, and that’s what we are working on.”

The development comes as the ADC continues to position itself as a major opposition platform ahead of the 2027 elections, with several prominent political figures already being linked to its presidential ticket.

Abdullahi also used the opportunity to criticise the ruling All Progressives Congress, claiming the party’s unity is largely dependent on its current leadership. According to him, “If you take power out of APC, APC is actually nothing,” adding that the party could “unravel quickly” after President Bola Tinubu.

He further described the APC as a “special purpose vehicle” formed to deliver past presidential victories, arguing that it may struggle to remain cohesive in the future.

The ADC spokesman also suggested that the ruling party appears unsettled despite its political dominance, questioning why it remains anxious ahead of future elections. He maintained that in a credible electoral process, the APC would face significant challenges retaining power.

While discussions on the consensus option continue within the party, no official decision has been announced regarding its 2027 presidential candidate, leaving the selection process open as political alignments ahead of the election gradually take shape.