ADC Coalition Shaken as Atiku’s Victory Reignites North-South Power Struggle

By George Omagbemi Sylvester

Fresh cracks have reportedly emerged within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition after former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s presidential primary victory reopened Nigeria’s long-standing zoning and power rotation debate ahead of the 2027 general election. The development is already exposing regional tensions capable of weakening opposition unity against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Atiku secured a dominant victory during the ADC presidential primary, defeating former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi and businessman Mohammed Hayatu-Deen by wide margins across several northern states.

However, the outcome has reportedly unsettled many southern stakeholders within the coalition who argue that power should remain in the South until 2031 following President Bola Tinubu’s emergence in 2023.

Political observers say the controversy mirrors the same zoning crisis that weakened the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) before the 2023 elections. Some youth leaders and southern political figures within the coalition have openly questioned whether another northern candidacy aligns with principles of equity, fairness, and national balance.

Despite the growing tension, ADC leaders insist the coalition remains united and committed to presenting a strong opposition platform capable of challenging the APC in 2027.

Party chairman David Mark described the primary as proof that internal democracy can still function in Nigeria’s political system.