The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially ratified former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, while the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called for the immediate release of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, describing him as a prisoner of conscience.
The major political developments emerged on Saturday as both parties held crucial meetings in Abuja aimed at strengthening their positions ahead of the next general elections.
At the NDC National Convention, party delegates unanimously endorsed Obi as the party’s standard-bearer for the 2027 presidential race, a move that effectively confirms his candidacy and signals the party’s readiness to challenge for power at the national level.
The ratification followed a motion moved by Senator Victor Umeh, who represents Anambra Central Senatorial District, and seconded by former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege.
The motion received overwhelming support from delegates, sparking celebrations and loud applause across the convention venue.
The endorsement comes amid growing political realignments and coalition-building efforts ahead of the 2027 elections, with Obi expected to play a central role in the opposition’s strategy.
Meanwhile, the African Democratic Congress used its 101st National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting to demand the release of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai.
In a communiqué issued after the meeting and signed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC described El-Rufai as a prisoner of conscience and urged authorities to release him without delay.
“The NEC recognises Mallam Nasir El-Rufai as a prisoner of conscience and calls for his immediate release,” the communiqué stated.
Beyond its position on El-Rufai, the ADC also approved several strategic resolutions designed to strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 polls.
The party ratified the results of recently conducted primaries for State Houses of Assembly, National Assembly, governorship and presidential elections across the country, excluding contests with pending appeals or those yet to be concluded.
According to the communiqué, the NEC also approved a 12-month extension of the tenure of the National Working Committee (NWC), allowing the current leadership to continue overseeing the party’s affairs during a critical period of political mobilisation.
In addition, the ADC approved the establishment of caretaker committees at the zonal, state, local government and ward levels nationwide for a one-year period.
Political analysts say the decisions taken by both parties underscore the increasing momentum ahead of the 2027 elections as political actors continue to reposition themselves for what is expected to be a fiercely contested race.
With Peter Obi now officially confirmed as the NDC presidential candidate and the ADC making strong declarations on key national issues, attention is expected to shift to campaign strategies, alliance negotiations and the evolving political landscape in the months ahead.
