In a landmark move that could reshape Nigeria’s political terrain, key opposition figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi have joined forces to formally apply for the registration of a new political party—the All Democratic Alliance (ADA).
The request, submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and acknowledged on Friday, marks the birth of a fresh political platform designed to provide Nigerians a credible alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), amid growing disillusionment with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party, both of which have been plagued by internal leadership crises.
The coalition’s application, dated June 19 and jointly signed by Protem National Chairman Chief Akin A. Rickets and Secretary Abdullahi Elayo, includes the proposed party’s constitution, manifesto, logo, and foundational minutes.
The party’s slogan, “Justice for All,” and its symbol—a maize cob—signal a message of sustenance, resilience, and national revival.
“We believe that Nigerians deserve more than recycled platforms and fractured opposition,” the group declared in its letter to INEC.
It further stated that “ADA is built on the values of inclusion, justice, and sustainable development.”
The move comes just days after INEC reiterated that registration of political parties must follow constitutional rigor, regardless of public sentiment or political urgency.
Nevertheless, Thursday’s application appears to put an end to weeks of speculation about whether the coalition would revive an old platform or forge a new one.
For many Nigerians weary of political stagnation and failed promises, the emergence of ADA represents a glimmer of hope—one that could potentially recalibrate the 2027 presidential race and redefine opposition politics in Nigeria.
Observers say the alliance between ideologically diverse figures like Atiku, El-Rufai, and Amaechi signals a strategic convergence of northern and southern political forces, united by a common goal: to offer a viable path forward for a country in search of leadership.
Whether ADA can truly galvanize Nigerians remains to be seen, but for now, it is clear that the political tide may be turning—and the ruling APC may no longer have a divided opposition to count on.
