A faction of the African Democratic Congress has unveiled businessman, Prof. Chris Uba, as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections following the conclusion of the party’s nationwide primary elections.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar had last week emerged as the presidential candidate of the party after defeating ex-Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi and former banker Mohammed Hayatu-Deen in a primary election held across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.

But on Sunday, the faction led by Bala Gombe also presented flags to 29 governorship candidates across the six geopolitical zones of the country.

Speaking during the formal presentation of the candidates in Abuja, the party’s factional National Chairman, Bala Gombe, said the presidential ticket was zoned to Southern Nigeria in line with the principles of equity, fairness, inclusiveness and federal character.

According to him, three aspirants initially purchased the party’s Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms to contest for the presidential ticket.

“They were Dr Bashir Sani, Prince Williams Charles and Prof. Chris Uba,” he said.

Gombe explained that the party adopted the consensus option provided under the Electoral Act, leading to the emergence of Uba as its sole presidential candidate after the withdrawal of the other aspirants.

“In adherence to the principle of federal character and in accordance with Section 84(2) of the Electoral Act, 2026, as amended, which recognizes consensus as a lawful mode for the selection or nomination of candidates by political parties, the African Democratic Congress adopted consensus as the method for its presidential, governorship, National Assembly and State House of Assembly primary election.

“Pursuant to this provision and in the interest of party unity, two of the party’s presidential aspirants voluntarily withdrew from the contest and endorsed Prof. Chief Chris Uba as the party’s sole presidential candidate.

“Consequently, Prof. Uba has been duly returned as the consensus candidate and duly elected to represent ADC as its presidential flagbearer in the 2027 general elections.”

He added that the party was formally unveiling all candidates who emerged from its internal democratic processes across various elective positions.

“Furthermore, in the spirit of humility, transparency, and profound respect for our members, stakeholders, and the general public, the leadership of ADC is pleased to formally present and unveil the comprehensive list of candidates duly nominated and elected under our platform.

“This list comprises the ADC presidential candidate, as well as the governorship candidates across 29 states of the federation, all of whom emerged through the party’s constitutionally approved internal democratic processes,” he said.

Among those presented as governorship candidates were Muhammad Usman Shuwa (Adamawa), Idris Adamu Yanoko (Kano), Shamsudin Muhammad (Kaduna), Ibrahim Al-Ameen Gumi (Zamfara), Babagana Mala (Borno), Musliu Babadele (Lagos), Ganiyu Alabi (Ogun), Rukayya Salami (Osun), Gbenga Gbenga (Oyo), Gada Suswan (Benue), Dijatu Abdul Salam (Nasarawa) and Christopher Benjo (Delta).

Gombe said the party had successfully concluded primaries for governorship, National Assembly and State House of Assembly positions nationwide.

“In furtherance of our commitment to ensure full participation of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the 2027 general elections by fielding credible, qualified, and constitutionally compliant candidates across all elective positions, we are pleased to announce the successful conclusion of all our party primaries.

“The entire process was conducted peacefully, transparently, and in strict compliance with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Electoral Act 2026 as amended, and the ADC Constitution and Electoral Guidelines, fostering unity and cordiality among all stakeholders. May Allah grant us wisdom, guidance, and resounding victory in all the elections. Ameen,” he added.

The unveiling comes as political parties begin positioning for the 2027 general elections, with consultations, coalition talks and internal realignments already gathering momentum across the country’s political landscape.

Founded in 2005, the ADC has positioned itself as an alternative political platform and has participated in successive general elections. The party has in recent years sought to expand its national footprint by attracting new members and strengthening its structures across the states.

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially endorsed former Anambra State governor and 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Gregory Obi, as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.

The affirmation took place at a special convention held in Abuja on Saturday, where party delegates and leaders ratified Obi as the party’s flagbearer.

The motion for his endorsement was moved by Senator Victor Umeh and seconded by former Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege.

Moments after his endorsement, Obi announced former Kano State governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, as his running mate, describing him as a genuine partner in governance rather than a ceremonial deputy.

In his acceptance speech, Obi thanked party leaders and supporters for the confidence reposed in him and reaffirmed his belief that “a New Nigeria is possible.”

“I humbly accept this responsibility as the presidential candidate of our party,” Obi declared.

He expressed gratitude to party leaders, including Senator Seriake Dickson, members of the National Working Committee, and supporters who travelled from across the country to witness the convention.

“This moment is bigger than my personal ambition,” Obi said.

“It concerns the soul of our nation and the future of our children. It is about restoring hope to millions of Nigerians who have endured hardship but remain committed to the promise of this country.”

Obi painted a grim picture of Nigeria’s current realities, citing insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment, and declining public confidence in governance.

“Families are anxious about their safety, parents fear for the future of their children, and talented young Nigerians increasingly doubt the possibility of opportunity in their own country,” he said.

“Businesses are struggling, communities are hurting, and many citizens have lost faith in governance. Yet, I stand here filled with hope and confidence in the resilience of our people because a New Nigeria is within reach.”

The NDC presidential candidate outlined key policy priorities for his proposed administration, including security, national unity, power supply, healthcare, education, and employment generation.

On youth unemployment and economic development, Obi stressed the need for urgent intervention.
“Our vast pool of talented youth remains significantly underemployed. The official unemployment figures do not reflect reality. The actual rates of unemployment and underemployment exceed 30 percent, while youth unemployment is above 40 percent — among the highest globally,” he said.

To address the challenge, Obi pledged support for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through tax incentives, affordable credit, and improved access to financing in agriculture, manufacturing, entertainment, sports, and distribution sectors.

“These interventions will be measurable, transparent, and accountable,” he assured.

Addressing corruption and governance costs, Obi promised prudent and transparent management of public resources.

“Nigerians will witness a measurable reduction in corruption and the basic costs of governance,” he stated.

“Public funds will be managed with transparency, prudence, and accountability to ensure every naira delivers value to the people.”

He further pledged to strengthen democratic institutions and promote tolerance of political opposition.

“Democracy under our leadership will reflect true government of the people, by the people, and for the people — free from interference by the ruling party,” Obi said.

“We will cultivate a culture of respect for opposition parties and encourage constructive collaboration in governance.”

The endorsement of Obi and the emergence of an Obi-Kwankwaso ticket are expected to significantly shape Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 presidential contest.

The Turaki-led PDP changed the venue of its convention on Saturday and briskly ratified former president Goodluck Jonathan as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.

The move was after the group was barred by the police from accessing the A Class Hotel in Abuja, initially rented for its convention.

The event, which did not last more than 20 minutes, had an ally of Jonathan, Fred Agbedi, who received the certificate on behalf of the former president.

Other dignitaries present at the event included Prof Jerry Gana, Tanimu Turaki, Adolphus Wabara, and several others who are loyal to Turaki.

The police had used several of their vans to completely block the two access roads leading off from the Wuse and Maitama axis, into the premises of the previously rented event centre.

The blockage deprived access to both PDP members loyal to Turaki and other road users who have nothing to do with the planned convention

The development comes following Friday’s warning to hotels and event centres by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, not to allow illegal political parties or organisations to use their resources for the sake of security in the FCT.

In response, the PDP, in a statement, accused Wike of attempting to halt its planned event.

According to the statement, the party said the management of A Class Event Centre informed it that pressure was being mounted on the venue to stop the gathering from taking place.

The PDP said it had already paid for the venue and fulfilled all conditions required for the programme.

The party also said security agencies had been notified of the convention scheduled for Saturday, May 30, 2026, in Wuse 2, Abuja.

The party insisted that the convention would proceed despite what it described as intimidation. (ChannelsTV)