By Lawrence Agbo

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has distanced itself from claims that it is aligned with or being used by specific political figures ahead of the 2027 presidential election, insisting it remains open to all aspirants.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, dismissed suggestions that the ADC is a political vehicle for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar or any other individual.

“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,” he said on Wednesday.

He stressed that the party has no preferred candidate at this stage, adding that the same position applies to other prominent figures like Peter Obi and Rotimi Amaechi, who may be interested in contesting on its platform.

“Definitely not. People will believe what they want, but I am telling you this has absolutely nothing to do with Atiku Abubakar any more than it has to do with Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, or anyone else who might want to contest on our platform,” he added.

Abdullahi said the ADC is focused on building a broad-based political movement rather than promoting the ambition of any single politician, noting that internal discussions, including zoning of its presidential ticket, are still ongoing.

He maintained that the party would take key decisions at the appropriate time and would not be pressured into premature conclusions, especially on sensitive issues that require strategic consensus.

The ADC spokesman also used the opportunity to call for greater unity among opposition forces, warning that divisions within their ranks could strengthen the ruling party and undermine democratic competition ahead of the 2027 elections.