Photo: Atiku, El-Rufai members of the Gang-up
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers and Kaduna states’ governors, Nasir El-Rufai and other key opposition figures have stormed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) with a request to register the All-Democratic Alliance (ADA) as a platform to unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,
Although former Anambra State Governor, Mr Peter Obi, is touted as one of the political forces behind the new alliance, he has yet to publicly identify with the latest move, having previously backed out of any alliance ‘for the sake of power grab’.
It was gathered that INEC has already received an official request to register ADA with the key figures working assiduously behind the scene to form a formidable front against the President and All Progressive Congress.
Sources revealed that the letter, dated June 19 and received by INEC on June 20, was signed by Chief Akin Tickets, serving as Protem National Chairman.
The application includes the party’s name, acronym (ADA), slogan (“Justice for All”), logo, constitution, manifesto, and flag. The party symbol features maize (corn) to reflect its political values.
This development follows reported talks among top political figures including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, and Rotimi Amaechi, who are exploring a coalition to challenge the ruling party. Instead of joining existing platforms, they have opted to create a new political party in Nigeria.
Under Section 75 of the Electoral Act 2022, political party registration requests must be made at least 12 months before the next general election. INEC must respond within 90 days, either approving the request or stating reasons for denial.
INEC’s National Commissioner for Information and Voter Education, Sam Olumekun, confirmed that over 100 groups have submitted letters of intent, but none has met all registration criteria yet.
The decision to register ADA reportedly followed a recommendation by a committee led by Amaechi. The coalition now awaits INEC’s official response.
