Paul Ibe, media aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has dismissed fears of a looming crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, insisting that the party’s delegates will ultimately determine who clinches the 2027 presidential ticket.
Speaking in an interview with Trust TV, Ibe addressed speculation that a power struggle was brewing between Atiku, former Labour Party candidate Peter Obi, and ex-Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi— all of whom are reportedly eyeing the ADC’s presidential ticket.
He explained that before the coalition’s formation, party leaders had already agreed on the need for compromise and sacrifice in their quest to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.
“Between what Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi and Amaechi says is ultimately, democracy has worked. It is the delegates of the party, whether it is a direct or indirect primary, they are the ones who are going to determine the fate of these leaders. All of these two fighting or three fighting will be settled by the delegates,” Ibe said.
While both Obi and Amaechi have declared their intentions to contest under the ADC, Atiku — who has vied for the presidency six times — is also widely believed to be preparing for another run.
The growing interest from high-profile contenders has triggered concerns over possible friction within the opposition alliance. But Ibe brushed off the idea of internal conflict, saying it’s only natural in a vibrant democracy.
According to him, “Maybe it’s because of the fact that we lost the essence of what democracy is all about because of what Tinubu and his administration has been doing. Everybody is being railroaded into a one-party state. It’s about choice, people have the right to choose.”
He emphasised that what some describe as a “fight” is merely the democratic process playing out among supporters “jostling for space,” and that the party structure will ensure a fair contest.
Ibe’s comments come as the newly formed opposition coalition ramps up preparations to challenge the APC’s grip on power in the 2027 elections.
