There is increasing pressure on opposition figures within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as they expedite their contingency plans.
Many are now considering the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) as a backup option ahead of approaching electoral deadlines.
This development arises from an ongoing leadership crisis within the ADC, which is currently involved in multiple court cases, raising concerns about the party’s legitimacy as the 2027 election cycle approaches.
A significant factor influencing these political shifts is the impending deadline set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the submission of party membership registers.
INEC has established May 10 as the cut-off date, a crucial timeline that will determine eligibility for participation in party primaries.
Under the Electoral Act, only individuals captured in a party’s membership register before submission can contest in primaries, making early alignment with a political platform critical.
Confirming the development, PRP National Chairman, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, told ThisDay key opposition figures had opened discussions with his party.
He noted that the PRP remains open to collaboration with political actors seeking a credible platform.
At the centre of the ADC crisis is a leadership dispute involving David Mark and rival factions challenging his emergence.
The situation has led to: Multiple court cases, including matters before the Supreme Court; Paralysed party structures across states; Competing factions laying claim to leadership; Uncertainty over the party’s convention and primaries
INEC has already withdrawn recognition from the Mark-led leadership following court directives, further complicating the party’s position.
The ADC has recently attracted major political figures, including: Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rauf Aregbesola.
Sources say many of these actors are now exploring alternative platforms as legal uncertainties persist.
The situation is expected to reach a critical point as the Supreme Court of Nigeria prepares to hear key appeals related to the ADC crisis.
The court has fixed April 22 for accelerated hearing of the disputes, a move seen as decisive for determining which faction controls the party.
A parallel crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is also before the apex court, raising concerns about broader instability within Nigeria’s opposition landscape.
Amid the turmoil, the PRP has openly invited opposition leaders to join its ranks.
Lagos State Chairman, James Adeshina, described the ADC crisis as a threat to opposition unity, warning that continued fragmentation could weaken democratic competition.
“At a time when the nation urgently needs a strong, united front, internal crises like this only weaken the opposition,” he said.
