ADC Takes Over Former Atiku Campaign Office, Atiku and Obi Absent

The African Democratic Congress on Monday opened its new national headquarters in Abuja, an event that drew attention because two major opposition figures—former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi—were not present. The party has been trying to bring both men into its fold, but neither attended the unveiling.

The new building, now serving as the ADC’s secretariat, was previously used by Atiku during his last presidential campaign under the Peoples Democratic Party. Party officials explained that Atiku’s lease on the property had ended and that the ADC took it over based on its own decision, not because of any political realignment.

During the opening ceremony, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi said the party’s move was purely administrative. He noted that the ADC leadership, led by Chairman Senator David Mark, was focused on fairness and maintaining unity as the party prepares for its congresses next year. He explained that the party had managed to keep internal disputes low because it tried to treat all members with a sense of inclusion.

Abdullahi also addressed questions about former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and Peter Obi, both of whom were given until after the Anambra governorship election to decide on their roles within the coalition that the ADC leads. He stated that no leadership positions in the coalition had changed and that final decisions were still expected from the political figures involved.

Addressing members during the event, Senator David Mark described the new headquarters as a place where the party hopes to shape ideas, build strategy, and prepare future leaders who can push for better governance. He said the building would serve as the central base for the coalition formed to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election cycle.

He added that the ADC expects members of the coalition to fully join the party by formally stepping away from their current political platforms. However, some of the coalition’s top figures have resisted this call.

For now, the ADC headquarters stands as the new operational center for the party’s activities as it works to strengthen its presence ahead of the next general election.