ADC Draws The Line: ‘We Will Not Be Blackmailed’ On Presidential Ticket Zoning

During an interview on Channels Television, the party’s spokesman, Bolaji Abdullahi, emphasized that the ADC would not be pressured into making a hasty decision. He noted that while zoning remains under discussion, a final decision will be made at the appropriate time.

“We will not be blackmailed into a premature decision. Zoning is on the table, and we are having strategic conversations, but I am not in a position to reveal those details yet,” Abdullahi stated.

The comments come less than a year before the 2027 elections. Recently, the Labour Party (LP) zoned its ticket to the southern region, while the All Progressives Congress (APC) adopted President Bola Tinubu from the South as its consensus candidate.

Some critics have suggested that the ADC, which has become a platform for opposition forces, is a vehicle for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s presidential ambitions. Abdullahi strongly rejected these claims, asserting that the party remains open to all candidates and has no preferred nominee.

Asked directly whether the ADC is a platform for Atiku, Abdullahi said, “No. Whoever says that doesn’t know what is happening in the ADC. This has nothing to do with Atiku Abubakar any more than it does with Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, or anyone else who may want to contest on our platform.”

Addressing the wave of defections to the APC, Abdullahi accused President Tinubu of “suffocating” opposition parties and highlighted the importance of unity among opposition forces.

“We believe Nigeria is facing an unprecedented existential challenge. It is critical for all opposition forces to come together. Splintering opposition ranks only helps entrench the status quo. For those who share our conviction to protect democracy, you are welcome to join our ranks,” he said.