Paul Ibe, spokesperson for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has dismissed concerns about internal conflict among key opposition figures in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over the party’s 2027 presidential ticket, insisting that the final decision lies with party delegates.
Speaking during an interview with Trust TV, Ibe clarified that while some tension appears to be brewing among the top contenders, the party had already built a foundation of mutual understanding and sacrifice prior to the formation of the opposition coalition.
The coalition, spearheaded by Atiku and other opposition leaders, was recently launched with the aim of challenging and unseating President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general election.
Shortly after the coalition’s announcement, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi and former Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi both declared their intentions to contest for the presidency under the ADC platform. Although Atiku has not formally declared, his history of six previous presidential bids has fueled speculation that he too will join the race under the same banner.
The flurry of high-profile interest has sparked concerns about a potential rupture within the coalition, as loyal supporters of each aspirant begin jockeying for influence and positioning their candidates as frontrunners.
However, Ibe was quick to dismiss the idea of an impending implosion, stating that what appears to be discord is merely the healthy friction that democracy permits.
“Between what Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Amaechi are saying is, ultimately, democracy has worked. It is the delegates of the party whether through direct or indirect primaries who will determine the fate of these leaders,” Ibe said.
He emphasized that internal competition should not be viewed as betrayal or conflict, but rather as the democratic process in action.
Responding to whether there should be friction in a coalition formed on a shared understanding, Ibe remarked, “That is the nature of democracy. Maybe it’s because we’ve lost the essence of what democracy truly means, largely due to the actions of Tinubu and his administration. Everyone is being pushed toward a one-party state. But democracy is about choice people have the right to choose.”
Ibe called on party supporters to focus on positive advocacy for their preferred candidates and to respect the process laid out in the party’s constitution.
“Let the supporters campaign for their candidates, and allow the delegates to do what the constitution of the party has provided,” he concluded.
