Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has postponed his official entry into the African Democratic Congress (ADC), fueling speculation about political realignments ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election.

Atiku, who recently resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) after prolonged internal disputes, was scheduled to collect his ADC membership card in Jada, Adamawa State, on August 6, 2025. The ceremony, however, has been postponed indefinitely as political developments unfold.

Why Atiku’s ADC Membership is on Hold

According to Shehu Yohana, ADC Chairman in Adamawa State, Atiku informed him that the event may now hold in mid-August or September. He reportedly wants to align the ceremony with the expected defection of some All Progressives Congress (APC) governors to the ADC—moves that could reshape Nigeria’s pre-election political landscape.

Power Struggles Within the ADC

Political insiders suggest the delay could be tied to internal ADC power tussles, especially in the South where Peter Obi’s political network is said to have gained influence.

An ADC national chieftain hinted that if the crisis persists, Atiku might explore defecting to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), echoing recent tensions surrounding former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s suspension from the SDP.

Goodluck Jonathan’s Rumored Presidential Bid

Adding intrigue to the 2027 election race, the ADC is reportedly in talks with former President Goodluck Jonathan about a potential comeback. Party officials claim Jonathan has shown interest but would not contest under the PDP due to the dominance of figures like Nyesom Wike.

While Jonathan’s campaign posters have surfaced on social media alongside political heavyweights like Dauda Lawal and Rabiu Kwankwaso, his wife, Patience Jonathan, publicly expressed support for First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and ruled out a return to Aso Rock for now.

Atiku’s Camp: ‘No Fear of Jonathan or Obi’

Atiku’s media aide, Paul Ibe, dismissed speculation that Jonathan’s rumored 2027 bid influenced the postponement, stressing that Atiku’s ADC registration process remains on track.

“Atiku is a democrat and welcomes competition,” Ibe stated. “He will not be intimidated by Jonathan, Obi, or any other presidential hopeful. The more the merrier—it’s democracy at work.”

Alleged APC Interference in ADC Politics

Some ADC leaders have accused the APC-led Federal Government of trying to destabilize the ADC to prevent Atiku from running in 2027.
One senior figure claimed that President Bola Tinubu’s camp sees Atiku as the main electoral threat and is encouraging fragmentation among opposition parties.

Aregbesola Predicts ADC Victory in Osun 2026

Away from the national spotlight, Rauf Aregbesola, ADC National Secretary and former Osun State Governor, declared that the party has “divine support” to win the 2026 Osun governorship election. Speaking at the 60th birthday of ex-Speaker Najeem Salaam, Aregbesola expressed confidence in an ADC victory.

What This Means for the 2027 General Election

The combination of Atiku’s delayed ADC membership, Jonathan’s potential return, and defections from other parties sets the stage for a highly competitive 2027 presidential election. The coming months will reveal whether Atiku strengthens his foothold in the ADC—or seeks a new political platform.

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Atiku Abubakar Delays ADC Membership Amid Goodluck Jonathan 2027 Election Rumors

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Former VP Atiku Abubakar delays joining the ADC as speculation grows over Goodluck Jonathan’s 2027 presidential comeback. Inside Nigeria’s shifting political alliances.