The African Democratic Congress is grappling with internal divisions driven by ego, ethnic considerations, and power struggles, raising concerns over its readiness for the 2027 presidential election.
What should have marked a period of consolidation for the party has instead exposed deep cracks, with insiders warning that internal conflicts, rather than external opposition, pose the greatest threat to its ambition.
Multiple sources familiar with the situation said competing interests among key figures have hindered efforts to build unity within the party.
“These are the real issues — ego, power, and disagreements over where the ticket should go,” a source said.
Two influential former governors are reportedly at the centre of the crisis, with their rivalry stalling consensus on leadership structure and the party’s presidential ticket.
One of them is said to oppose the emergence of a South-East candidate, a stance that has heightened ethnic tensions within the party, while the other is believed to be positioning himself as the most viable contender with northern support.
Together, these positions have created a standoff, with insiders noting that personal ambition has taken precedence over collective strategy.
“They are not thinking about victory; they are thinking about themselves,” another source said.
The crisis has also exposed a divide between long-standing members and new entrants, with some party loyalists expressing concern over the growing influence of recent high-profile joiners.
Beyond internal rivalries, a gap between public popularity and internal acceptance of aspirants has emerged as another challenge.
“Popularity outside is not the same as acceptance within the party,” a source noted.
Observers say the ongoing disagreements come at a critical time, as the party faces tight electoral timelines and mounting pressure to present a united front.
Senator Victor Umeh warned that unchecked ambition could damage the party.
“If they continue to struggle among themselves, the party will suffer,” he said, while dismissing reports of backroom deals among aspirants.
Political analyst Kenny Okolugbo also cautioned that the ADC must manage internal ambitions effectively, drawing parallels with past political coalitions.
According to him, failure to strike a balance could lead to internal collapse.
He added that zoning considerations and regional balance would play a crucial role in determining the party’s chances.
Meanwhile, emerging alliances within the opposition space are further complicating the landscape, with shifting loyalties reflecting uncertainty within the party.
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Sources indicated that some aspirants are already considering alternative platforms, signalling doubts about the party’s ability to resolve its internal crisis.
Analysts warn that without urgent reconciliation and consensus-building, the ADC risks losing momentum ahead of the 2027 elections.
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