Tensions within the opposition coalition have intensified as former presidential candidates, Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, are reportedly finalising plans to exit the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and align with a new political platform, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
Sources familiar with the negotiations said both politicians are concluding arrangements to formally join the NDC on Monday, a development that could further shake ongoing efforts to present a unified opposition front ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Insiders within the coalition claimed the planned departure is linked to rising concerns over the influence of Atiku Abubakar within the ADC structure, which many believe is being positioned as the coalition’s central platform. Atiku is also seen by some stakeholders as a frontrunner for the party’s presidential ticket, ahead of Obi and other aspirants.
The development comes shortly after opposition figures reached an agreement at a summit in Ibadan, Oyo State, to support a single presidential candidate for 2027. The resolution, contained in the “Ibadan Declaration,” was aimed at unifying the opposition under a common goal of political change.
However, the emerging realignment now appears to challenge that consensus.
A senior figure in the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Buba Galadima, confirmed that Obi and Kwankwaso would soon announce their new political direction, suggesting that the formal declaration could take place as early as Monday.
According to sources close to the discussions, the move to the NDC is being driven by a desire to avoid internal disputes similar to those reportedly experienced within the ADC.
One insider said the two leaders and their associates had been in final meetings with NDC representatives, including former Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson, to complete necessary political arrangements.
The source added that the decision followed concerns that internal rivalry within the ADC could undermine their political ambitions.
Galadima, speaking at a separate engagement, warned supporters to expect coordinated criticism following the announcement, alleging that political opponents may deploy media and online campaigns to discredit the move.
He urged supporters to remain vigilant and respond firmly to any negative narratives.
Meanwhile, Isaac Fayose, brother of former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, expressed support for a potential Obi–Kwankwaso alliance, describing it as a strong alternative political force, while claiming it already enjoys widespread grassroots backing.
However, political analyst Adebayo Abubakar cautioned that continued fragmentation within the opposition could weaken its chances in 2027, stressing that mistrust and personal ambition remain major obstacles to unity.
He warned that rather than consolidation, the opposition appears to be drifting further into division, a trend that could benefit the ruling party if not addressed.
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