Ahead of the 2027 general elections, a faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has named prominent businessman, Prof. Chris Uba, as its presidential flagbearer following the wrap-up of the party’s nationwide primaries.
This development comes on the heels of another factional primary election held across the 36 states and the FCT last week, where former Vice President Atiku Abubakar clinched a presidential ticket after defeating former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and ex-banker Mohammed Hayatu-Deen.
On Sunday, the Bala Gombe-led faction also distributed party flags to 29 governorship candidates spanning all six geopolitical zones.
During the official presentation ceremony in Abuja, Gombe, the factional National Chairman, explained that the presidential slot was intentionally restricted to Southern Nigeria to maintain equity, fairness, inclusiveness, and federal character. He noted that three political hopefuls originally bought the party’s Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms.
“They were Dr Bashir Sani, Prince Williams Charles and Prof. Chris Uba,” he said.
Gombe noted that the faction utilized the consensus path allowed by the law, resulting in Uba becoming the lone candidate after his rivals stepped down.
“In adherence to the principle of federal character and in accordance with Section 84(2) of the Electoral Act, 2026, as amended, which recognizes consensus as a lawful mode for the selection or nomination of candidates by political parties, the African Democratic Congress adopted consensus as the method for its presidential, governorship, National Assembly and State House of Assembly primary election.
“Pursuant to this provision and in the interest of party unity, two of the party’s presidential aspirants voluntarily withdrew from the contest and endorsed Prof. Chief Chris Uba as the party’s sole presidential candidate.
“Consequently, Prof. Uba has been duly returned as the consensus candidate and duly elected to represent ADC as its presidential flagbearer in the 2027 general elections.”
He further noted that the faction felt it was necessary to officially display the winners of its internal voting processes.
“Furthermore, in the spirit of humility, transparency, and profound respect for our members, stakeholders, and the general public, the leadership of ADC is pleased to formally present and unveil the comprehensive list of candidates duly nominated and elected under our platform.
“This list comprises the ADC presidential candidate, as well as the governorship candidates across 29 states of the federation, all of whom emerged through the party’s constitutionally approved internal democratic processes,” he said.
The group of unveiled governorship candidates featured Muhammad Usman Shuwa (Adamawa), Idris Adamu Yanoko (Kano), Shamsudin Muhammad (Kaduna), Ibrahim Al-Ameen Gumi (Zamfara), Babagana Mala (Borno), Musliu Babadele (Lagos), Ganiyu Alabi (Ogun), Rukayya Salami (Osun), Gbenga Gbenga (Oyo), Gada Suswan (Benue), Dijatu Abdul Salam (Nasarawa), and Christopher Benjo (Delta).
Gombe declared that all internal elections for governorship, National Assembly, and State House of Assembly slots had reached a successful end across the country.
“In furtherance of our commitment to ensure full participation of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the 2027 general elections by fielding credible, qualified, and constitutionally compliant candidates across all elective positions, we are pleased to announce the successful conclusion of all our party primaries.
“The entire process was conducted peacefully, transparently, and in strict compliance with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Electoral Act 2026 as amended, and the ADC Constitution and Electoral Guidelines, fostering unity and cordiality among all stakeholders. May Allah grant us wisdom, guidance, and resounding victory in all the elections. Ameen,” he added.
