By Peter Omopo
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has dismissed speculation surrounding the absence of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi at the unveiling of its new national secretariat in Abuja on November 17.
Both Atiku and Obi, key figures in the ADC-led coalition ahead of the 2027 general election, were noticeably missing from the high-profile event. Their absence had sparked rumours of internal disagreement, particularly suggestions that Obi boycotted the ceremony because the building previously served as Atiku’s campaign office.
However, the ADC leadership has debunked the reports, insisting there is no rift within the coalition.
ADC: ‘Obi, Atiku Had Scheduling Conflicts’
Speaking on the matter, the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said neither Atiku nor Obi intentionally shunned the unveiling.
According to him, Obi was out of the country, while Atiku was unavailable due to other commitments.
“The programme was impromptu; most of the party leaders were not in attendance. Obi was out of the country, and Atiku wasn’t available,” he said.
“There’s nothing to suggest that Peter Obi is withdrawing from the coalition. He is still with us.”
Abdullahi also dismissed claims that the property was donated by Atiku, clarifying that the former vice president had only leased the building during the 2023 election cycle.
“Atiku isn’t the owner of the building, and he didn’t donate it to the ADC. He leased it, and the rent had expired. The ADC rented the building,” he added.
He stressed that the coalition remained cohesive and focused on its mission to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027.
Coalition Leaders Present at the Launch
Despite the absence of Atiku and Obi, the event was attended by senior coalition figures, including ADC National Chairman David Mark, National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola, and former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai.
Mark described the new secretariat as a symbol of the coalition’s resolve to reshape the nation’s political direction.
“It is a physical testament to our collective resolve to build a greater nation,” he said.
“This coalition is a historic child of necessity, inspired by the people’s desire for good governance, greater accountability, and a stronger democracy.”
Obidient Movement: Obi Is Taking Strategic Time
Yunusa Tanko, former campaign spokesman and National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, also dismissed speculation that Obi was planning to exit the coalition.
According to him, the former Anambra State governor is taking time to evaluate his political options ahead of the 2027 race.
“Obi is not abandoning the ADC coalition. He will make a statement soon because he needs to get it right, now that many are showing interest in him,” Tanko said.
He added that Obi remained cautious about aligning with any group unless he is certain of having enough political space to operate.
“He doesn’t want to be in a place where he will feel trapped. So he needs to be extremely careful where he gets his ticket. Our hope is that since the presidency should rotate to the South, the ADC will consider giving him the ticket.”
Tanko affirmed that Obi’s political timeline remains unchanged.
“He already said he would make his intention known after the Anambra election. He will do it at the appropriate time. He shouldn’t be pressured.”
