Introduction

The 2027 Nigerian presidential election is already shaping as a fiercely contested battle, with regional dynamics playing a decisive role. Among the emerging fault lines, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Nigeria's South-West zone is experiencing internal unrest, as key leaders accuse presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar of marginalising the party structure.

What Happened

In September 2026, ADC state chairmen and governorship candidates converged in Ibadan to formally complain that Atiku was running campaign activities through personal allies rather than through the party's official machinery. The group petitioned the party's National Secretary, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, questioning whether Atiku intended to engage the party structure or bypass it. Following the meeting, Atiku held a virtual session with South-West ADC leaders, where he pledged to carry the party along and asked each state to submit five names for his campaign committee. However, attendees noted that little has materially changed since that promise.

Tensions escalated when ADC chairmen from the six South-West states traveled to Abuja to meet Atiku, only to be denied transport fare, sparking frustration among party officials. An ADC House of Assembly candidate in Ekiti also alleged that the campaign lacks visibility in the region because the party has not been engaged, with only the candidate's personal circle involved in activities.

Why This Matters

The dispute highlights a broader concern about the sustainability of Atiku's 2027 campaign in a region where President Bola Tinubu already holds significant influence. The South-West, comprising states like Ogun, Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo, Lagos, and Osun, was critical in the 2023 election, and the ADC's ability to mobilise its structure there could affect the overall race. If key state executives and grassroots leaders feel excluded, the party's ground game may suffer.

ADC South-West Chairman Akin Omole has defended Atiku's approach, arguing that the former vice-president's cross-party alliances are necessary for victory. However, critics within the party maintain that ignoring the formal structure risks eroding trust and diminishing grassroots support, particularly in a zone where every local connection matters.

Key Takeaways

  • ADC leaders in the South-West formally complained that Atiku is conducting campaign activities through allies rather than the party structure.
  • A meeting in Ibadan on September 4, 2026, saw leaders demand that Atiku respect the party machinery that produced governorship, national, and state assembly candidates.
  • Atiku reportedly promised to appoint five party members per state to his campaign committee, but observers say tangible changes have been slow to follow.
  • ADC chairmen were reportedly denied transport fare when traveling to Abuja to meet Atiku, fueling discontent among party officials.
  • The Osun State ADC dismissed rumors of friction between Aregbesola and Atiku, stating there is no leadership crisis and a deliberate roadmap is underway.
  • Atiku's Director of Strategic Communication, Phrank Shaibu, denied that state executives have been sidelined, insisting no state campaign structure has been constituted and then excluded.

Conclusion

As the 2027 presidential race approaches, the ADC's internal cohesion in the South-West will likely influence its electoral performance. Whether Atiku can reconcile with the party structure or continue relying on personal allies may determine how effectively he competes in a region where every grassroots connection matters. Stakeholders and political observers will be watching closely to see if the promised reforms translate into real organisational change.