Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar held a high-level consultative meeting with the leadership of the Action Democratic Party (ADP) at his Abuja residence over the weekend.
The meeting was confirmed by ADP National Chairman Yabagi Yusuf Sani, who described it as part of the party’s ongoing engagement with democratic stakeholders.
“The national leadership of the ADP, led by the National Chairman, Yabagi Yusuf Sani, held a high-level consultative meeting with Atiku Abubakar, Wazirin Adamawa, as part of its ongoing engagements with key democratic stakeholders,” Sani said in a statement.
According to Sani, discussions centered on protecting democratic pluralism, strengthening opposition stability, and safeguarding credible electoral choices ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He stressed the importance of preserving democratic competition, ensuring constitutionally compliant political platforms, and promoting responsible preparedness to protect voter choice and institutional integrity.
Sani dismissed speculation that the meeting was aimed at merging parties or recruiting Atiku into ADP.
“ADP remains focused on institutional stability, constitutionalism, and keeping credible options open for Nigerians. Any future decisions, if and when they arise, will be taken transparently and communicated formally,” he said.
Despite denials, analysts note the meeting comes amid rumors of a possible Peter Obi–Rabiu Kwankwaso alliance under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), fueling speculation that Atiku’s engagement may be part of wider pre-election maneuvering.
ADC Accuses APC of Coercion
In a related development, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of coercing civil servants into joining its ongoing e-registration exercise.
ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi described the practice as economic coercion and forced membership.
“Compelling public servants to join a political party violates their constitutional right to freedom of association and threatens the neutrality of the civil service,” he said.
The ADC claimed workers were being pressured to register with the APC as a condition for job security, career progression, or continued access to livelihood.
The party warned that inflated registration figures achieved through intimidation may serve propaganda purposes but cannot replace genuine voter support.
It called on the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), civil society groups, labour unions, and the international community to intervene, describing the situation as a potential abuse of power and violation of data privacy.
Labour Party Rebuilds After Obi’s Exit
Meanwhile, Abia State Governor Alex Otti said the Labour Party (LP) remains strong despite the exit of former presidential candidate Peter Obi, who officially joined the ADC on December 31.
Speaking at the LP National Working Committee meeting in Abuja, Otti acknowledged defections but insisted the party remains formidable.
“We regret the exit of our former leader and presidential candidate. While we regret it, we are working to resolve the problems in the party so that everyone can come together and make the party stronger,” he said.
Otti announced plans to establish a reconciliation committee to engage aggrieved members and organise congresses from ward to national level beginning in March.
He also praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for updating its website to reflect the Nenadi Usman-led NWC, following a court ruling that recognised Usman’s committee as the authentic leadership.
PDP Steps Up Unity Drive
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is also intensifying efforts to restore internal cohesion and build alliances ahead of 2027.
Caretaker National Vice-Chairman (South-South) Emmanuel Ogidi said the PDP remains committed to defending democracy and repositioning itself as a credible opposition.
“Yes, today we have some pockets of trouble in the PDP, but we are resolute. We know we are the only viable opposition,” he told reporters.
Ogidi accused the APC of prioritising electoral victories over governance. He warned that continued erosion of democratic institutions could destabilise Nigeria, pledging that the PDP would do everything possible to protect democracy and national unity.
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