Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has unexpectedly delayed his much-anticipated formal entry into the African Democratic Congress (ADC), fuelling political intrigue over a possible 2027 presidential run by former President Goodluck Jonathan.
Atiku, who recently resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) after a series of protracted internal crises, was scheduled to officially pick up his ADC membership card at a high-profile ceremony in his hometown of Jada, Adamawa State. The event, initially slated for Wednesday, August 6, was to mark his formal defection and signal the start of a new political chapter.
However, party sources confirmed that the event has been postponed indefinitely, with no clear explanation from Atiku’s camp.
Speaking to Sunday PUNCH, the ADC Adamawa State Chairman, Shehu Yohana, said the former vice president informed him by phone on Friday morning that the ceremony had been shifted to mid-August, though no exact date was fixed.
“From the way things are going, due to one issue or the other, the event may even extend into September,” Yohana revealed.
“He (Atiku) said he was waiting for some All Progressives Congress governors who are planning to join ADC to defect before holding his reception in Jada.”
The delay comes amid reports that the ADC is in discreet negotiations with Jonathan, exploring the possibility of fielding him as the party’s presidential candidate in 2027.
While both Atiku and Jonathan have remained tight-lipped on the matter, political analysts suggest that the ADC may be weighing its options between two political heavyweights whose entry could reshape Nigeria’s presidential race.
If confirmed, Jonathan’s return bid would be one of the most significant political developments ahead of 2027, potentially altering alliances across party lines — and explaining the ADC’s cautious timing in unveiling Atiku’s membership.
The unfolding scenario sets the stage for a high-stakes political chess game, as the ADC positions itself to become a major player in the next general election.
