Nigeria’s political landscape is set for a shakeup as prominent opposition figures have united to form a new political party — the All Democratic Alliance (ADA) — with ambitions to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
The party’s formation was made official through a letter dated June 19 and acknowledged on Friday by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), signaling the coalition’s intention to register ADA as a full-fledged political party.
Spearheading the movement are high-profile leaders including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi. The initiative is being driven by the National Opposition Coalition, a body seeking to consolidate the strength of disillusioned political heavyweights and rising democrats.
Sources close to the coalition revealed that Dr. Umar Ardo, a former aide to ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo and convener of the League of Northern Democrats, is also playing a pivotal role in the formation of the new party.
According to documents obtained by reporters in Abuja, the application for ADA’s registration was submitted by Chief Akin A. Rickets and Abdullahi Elayo, who signed as the party’s Protem National Chairman and Secretary, respectively. The proposed party is adopting “Justice for All” as its official slogan, with maize (corn) as its symbol — a choice the group says represents abundance, resilience, and sustainability.
We respectfully write to the Independent National Electoral Commission, requesting the registration of our association, the All Democratic Alliance, as a political party,” the letter read in part. It also included a comprehensive dossier featuring the group’s constitution, manifesto, logo, and records of key meetings, fulfilling legal prerequisites for party formation.
INEC, while confirming receipt of the application, reiterated that political party registration must align strictly with constitutional and electoral provisions. The commission emphasized that a public announcement does not equate to formal recognition and that all new parties must undergo rigorous legal scrutiny.
The ADA’s emergence puts an end to widespread speculation over whether opposition leaders would resuscitate a defunct party or establish a new political platform. Insiders believe the party is strategically positioning itself to tap into growing discontent and shifting loyalties ahead of the next general elections.
However, the development has also sparked confusion within some camps. When contacted, Paul Ibe, spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar, claimed ignorance of the party’s application. “I have not been briefed about that. Of course, you know that what the coalition is doing is not under our purview. So, I am not aware of this,” he said, even after being informed that the documents had been verified.
Political analysts are closely watching the move, noting that the involvement of influential figures from different political backgrounds could make ADA a formidable contender — potentially redrawing Nigeria’s political map in the years to come.
