Barring any last-minute changes, the emerging coalition of opposition leaders is set to announce the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its adopted political platform ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Reliable sources within the coalition revealed to Sunday PUNCH that former Senate President, David Mark, has accepted to serve as Interim National Chairman of the ADC. This strategic move signals the coalition’s seriousness in presenting a united front to unseat President Bola Tinubu.

The development follows weeks of high-level consultations among prominent opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, and ex-governors Nasir El-Rufai (Kaduna) and Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers).

Coalition Finalising Leadership, Platform Details

Three credible sources confirmed David Mark’s acceptance, while discussions continue regarding the position of National Secretary. Former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, and Senator Ben Obi reportedly declined the offer, citing personal reasons.

An insider told Sunday PUNCH, “A consensus will soon be reached, and the ADC will be officially unveiled later this week as the united platform of the opposition.”

United Opposition Seeks to Challenge APC in 2027

Since the formation of the coalition was first announced on March 20 in Abuja, political analysts have speculated over the platform it would adopt. The coalition—comprising leaders from the PDP, Labour Party, NNPP, and Social Democratic Party (SDP)—reportedly rejected the SDP due to perceived infiltration by Tinubu’s loyalists.

A reliable source revealed, “What I can tell you is that we have all agreed on the ADC as the national coalition platform… and David Mark as Interim National Chairman.”

Another coalition insider noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s unwillingness to register new parties pushed the group to settle on the ADC. Party members loyal to the coalition leaders have already begun integrating into the ADC’s structure nationwide.

ADC’s Ralph Nwosu Confirms Transition

In an exclusive interview, ADC National Chairman Ralph Nwosu affirmed his willingness to step down for David Mark, describing him as “disciplined, detribalised, and Nigeria-first.” He added that the movement is not about power-grabbing but about rescuing Nigeria from poverty, insecurity, and bad governance under the APC-led administration.

“There is no better person to do the job of ADC National Chairman and bring everybody together beyond politics than David Mark. I am ready to step aside and sacrifice for Nigeria,” Nwosu said.

Nwosu also disclosed that in many states, ADC candidates are already being fielded from a blend of PDP, LP, and even APC backgrounds.

“Within the next week, everything will be concluded, and they will be officially received,” he stated.

Labour Party’s Obi May Exit for Coalition

Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, confirmed that former Anambra Governor Peter Obi remains committed to any political structure aimed at improving Nigeria’s governance.

“As long as it is in the interest of Nigeria, he is in the coalition for that particular purpose,” Tanko added.

APC Responds: ‘Mission Dead on Arrival’

Reacting to the news, APC’s Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, dismissed the coalition’s efforts as a “dead-on-arrival mission.” He emphasized that the ruling party remains confident ahead of the 2027 elections.

“ADC is not a platform that can fly. Their efforts will be in vain and will not threaten or frighten the APC,” Ibrahim told Sunday PUNCH.

What Lies Ahead

Although Atiku’s media adviser, Paul Ibe, declined to comment, and David Mark’s aide, Paul Mumeh, could not be reached, sources close to both confirmed that negotiations are nearing completion.

A key stakeholder aligned with Atiku confirmed:

“Things are at a very advanced stage… the formal declaration will be made before next week runs out.”

As the coalition prepares to unveil its structure and leadership, observers are watching closely to see whether this united opposition front can mount a viable challenge to the All Progressives Congress in 2027.