2027: Atiku steps up South-East outreach as ADC primary race tightens

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has intensified consultations within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), meeting with South-East leaders of the party in Abuja ahead of the 2027 presidential primary.

The high-level engagement, described by the ADC as “crucial,” was held behind closed doors on Tuesday night at the residence of Chikwe Udensi in the Federal Capital Territory. According to the party, discussions focused on strategic direction, alliance-building and preparations for the forthcoming primaries.

The meeting drew a strong delegation of party stakeholders and influential figures from the region. Among those present were Senator Augustine Akobundu; Chief Chekwas Okorie; former Minister of State for Education, Emeka Nwajiuba; Dr. Osita Oruche; Prof. Onyi Nwagbara; Chief Uchenna Okogbuo; former ADC National Chairman, Chief Ralph Nwosu; Hon. Uzoma Abonta; Hon. Uko Nkole; Etigwe Uwah; Dr. Steve Nwadiuko; Chief Morris Eboh; Senator Frank Ibezim; and Dr. Dave Eboh.

Although the ADC did not disclose specific outcomes of the talks, political analysts view the move as a strategic attempt by Atiku to consolidate support in the South-East — a region considered politically significant in any coalition-building effort ahead of 2027. The outreach is also seen as part of wider positioning within opposition circles as aspirants prepare for what is expected to be a competitive primary season.

The consultations come against the backdrop of a revised electoral timetable issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which has compressed the window for political parties to conduct their primaries.

Under the new schedule, Presidential and National Assembly elections will take place on January 16, 2027, while governorship and State Assembly polls are fixed for February 6, 2027.

INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, said the commission approved the revised timetable following amendments to the Electoral Act 2026.

According to INEC, party primaries – including the resolution of disputes – will run from April 23 to May 30, 2026. The commission further directed political parties to submit their digital membership registers at least 21 days before holding any primary, congress or convention, warning that failure to comply could result in disqualification from fielding candidates.