This morning, former Vice President and serial presidential aspirant Alhaji Atiku Abubakar announced his move to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He said the party is building a potent coalition that will shock the world in 2027.
Atiku also confirmed suspicions that he will run for president again. If he does, this will be his seventh attempt after contesting in 1993, 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019, and 2023. He insists that the opposition must rise against what he calls nationwide degeneration and unprecedented thievery under the current administration.
Is ADC the Third Force?
The big question now is whether the ADC can truly stand as the third force Nigerians have been waiting for. Political observers argue that Atiku’s return adds new weight to the party. However, his ambition may also block Peter Obi’s chances in the ADC unless Obi accepts a vice-presidential slot.
This sets the stage for a fierce power struggle ahead of 2027.
Challenges Within ADC
Despite the bold claims, the foundation of ADC remains shaky. The old structure led by Dumebi Kachikwu and other factions have openly questioned the new leadership. Legal battles still linger over how the current executives took control.
Without resolving these disputes, the ADC risks internal disunity. Analysts warn that the party may implode if consensus is not reached early enough.
The Gladiators and 2027 Race
The 2027 political race is already shaping up with strong gladiators:
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Nasir El-Rufai – the controversial former governor with grassroots influence.
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Peter Obi – with the powerful Obedient Movement behind him.
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Atiku Abubakar – relentless in his presidential pursuit.
The question is simple: who will carry the ADC flag without triggering chaos? The party is standing on a ticking time bomb. Unless these issues are handled, the so-called “rescue party” may not survive long enough to challenge APC and PDP.
Nigerians Express Frustration with Recycled Leadership
There is growing anticipation across the country. Many Nigerians say they are tired of the same politicians recycling leadership across different parties. Citizens argue that this political recycling stalls progress and prevents fresh ideas from emerging.
FAAC Clears ₦1.49 Trillion Arrears in Six Months
According to ThisDay, the Federal Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) announced that the FIRS and other agencies raised ₦1.49 trillion arrears for the federation within six months. This move highlights government determination to improve public finance management and close revenue loopholes.
Nigeria’s Fiscal Vulnerability and Concurrent Budgets
In 2025, Nigeria is operating two budgets simultaneously. Funds generated in 2025 are being used to complete the 2024 budget. Analysts warn this is abnormal and signals fiscal stress. Normally, countries in crisis — like Lebanon and Libya during post-war periods — face this challenge.
While clearing arrears is positive, deeper structural reforms are missing. Recurrent expenditure swallows most of the budget, leaving little for capital projects. Contractors remain unpaid. Companies that borrowed from banks to fund projects are in distress. This widens Nigeria’s infrastructure gap.
Public Reaction to Salary Review Plans
Citizens are also pushing back against recent government plans to review salaries of public officers. Many argue that with revenue challenges, increasing salaries will worsen fiscal pressure.
Julius Malema at Nigerian Bar Association Conference
Leadership newspaper reported that Julius Malema, leader of South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), spoke at the NBA conference in Enugu. Malema condemned imperialism and urged African nations to break colonial dependency. He called for stronger Nigeria–South Africa ties, free visa travel, and unity against xenophobia.
At the same event, the Sultan of Sokoto spoke against corruption in Nigeria’s judiciary, urging reforms to restore trust.
The Challenge of Nigeria–South Africa Relations
Although Malema calls for unity, realities on the ground raise concerns. In South Africa, groups like Operation Dudulla are targeting foreigners, especially Nigerians. Hospitals and communities are under pressure from activists demanding migrants leave.
This tension contrasts sharply with Nigeria’s historic support for South Africa during apartheid. Nelson Mandela himself visited Nigeria to thank the country for its role in the liberation struggle. Experts say these lessons from history must guide both nations to work toward economic and political unity.