The leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has constituted a high-powered committee to engage influential political figures across opposition parties as part of its early preparations for the 2027 general elections. The move signals a renewed push by the party to strengthen opposition collaboration and position itself as a viable alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

A highly placed party official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the committee’s mandate cuts across party lines. According to the source, the ADC is not targeting any specific political party or individual but is instead maintaining an open and inclusive dialogue with key opposition stakeholders nationwide.

The development comes amid growing reports that the ADC is reaching out to prominent political figures, particularly the national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. The former Kano State governor recently stirred political debate when he publicly expressed his readiness to align with any opposition coalition willing to offer him either the presidential or vice-presidential ticket.

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Kwankwaso made the remarks last Saturday in Kano while addressing supporters, amid speculations over possible political realignments in the state. During the event, he outlined conditions under which he would consider joining any opposition alliance, further fuelling discussions about his political future ahead of 2027.

Confirming the ADC’s internal moves, the party source told Sunday PUNCH that structures had already been put in place to manage engagements discreetly. “It is for proper engagements across all party ranks, though this is not something we expect to be leaked to the public,” the source said. “We are not targeting a particular political party or individual, as we are maintaining an open dialogue platform with all of them.”

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Another senior ADC source corroborated this position, revealing that the party’s National Chairman, David Mark, had made it clear to Kwankwaso’s camp that no assurances could be given regarding either the presidential or vice-presidential ticket. According to the source, the party leadership has adopted a firm stance on internal democracy and competitiveness.

“It was clearly stated that there will be no offer of either the presidential or vice-presidential ticket from the party leadership to anyone,” the source said, stressing that all aspirants would be expected to follow due process.

The ADC has, since July 2025, emerged as the coalition platform of choice for opposition leaders seeking to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections. Under the leadership of David Mark as National Chairman and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary, the party has intensified efforts to consolidate its structures nationwide and build public confidence.

Several high-profile opposition figures have already aligned with the ADC. Former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi joined the party in July 2025, followed by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in November. Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi officially joined the party on December 31, further boosting its national profile.

Party insiders revealed that the ADC leadership is exploring the idea of an inclusive government of national unity. Under this arrangement, figures like Kwankwaso and their support bases could be accommodated through strategic political appointments rather than ticket guarantees. These could include ministerial positions, National Assembly leadership roles, and other key appointments.

Another prominent ADC leader disclosed that while ticket promises were off the table, David Mark was expected to personally engage Kwankwaso to discuss alternative terms of cooperation. A committee, the source added, has been tasked with deliberating on these matters and reaching a timely resolution.

Despite declining to confirm the existence of the committee, ADC spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi said the party would continue to strengthen its membership base and expand its reach nationwide. Meanwhile, the NNPP confirmed that consultations were ongoing, with its leadership expected to clarify its position at the appropriate time.