ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is sliding into a dangerous internal storm as power struggles, regional tensions, and competing ambitions threaten to derail its 2027 presidential project even before it fully takes off.
What was expected to be a moment of political consolidation has instead turned into a struggle for survival, with insiders warning that the real danger is not opposition parties, but deep cracks within the party itself.
Multiple sources familiar with the situation say the crisis is being driven by powerful figures within the party whose personal ambitions are clashing over leadership control and the presidential ticket.
At the centre of the dispute are two influential former governors whose rivalry has quietly shaped the direction of events. Their disagreement over zoning, candidacy, and influence has reportedly hardened divisions within the party structure.
One camp is strongly opposed to a South-East presidential candidate, a position that has triggered accusations of ethnic bias and widened internal suspicion.
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The other bloc, meanwhile, is pushing a northern-backed ambition, insisting it offers better electoral viability.
Insiders say the struggle is no longer ideological but deeply personal.
“They are not thinking about victory; they are thinking about themselves,” one source lamented.
Beyond the top rivalry, long-time party members are also expressing frustration over what they describe as takeover attempts by newer entrants who now wield significant influence.
This has created tension between the party’s founding bloc and emerging power brokers, with questions being raised about ownership and control of the party structure.
There is also a widening gap between public popularity and internal acceptance, as some aspirants who enjoy strong grassroots support reportedly struggle to secure backing within party hierarchy.
With election timelines tightening, concerns are growing that the ADC is spending more time resolving internal disputes than preparing for a competitive national contest.
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Political observers warn that unless urgent compromises are reached, the party risks fragmentation before the primaries.
Some analysts have already suggested that the ADC’s survival may depend on a carefully balanced ticket and a strong coalition strategy that can manage Nigeria’s sensitive regional dynamics.
For now, uncertainty hangs over the party as consultations continue behind closed doors, while multiple blocs quietly explore alternative political options should the crisis persist.