Structures of northern PDP already in the bag of ADC – Atiku’s spokesman

Paul Ibe, spokesperson for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has said the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has taken over structures of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the northern states.

He said the coalition party has taken control of PDP structures in several northern states, including Yobe, Gombe, and Adamawa, even as many of the political bigwigs involved are yet to make formal defections.

He noted that the coalition party has launched an aggressive push to absorb top political actors from the PDP and even the APC as part of a broader strategy to build a powerful coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He confirmed the ongoing political realignment and praised Atiku’s role in guiding the coalition process.

Ibe stated, “The movement is gaining traction. Atiku Abubakar will continue to provide direction to ensure the coalition evolves into a formidable, robust, and viable platform.

“The Yobe PDP executive has aligned with the ADC, as has Gombe’s. The Adamawa executives have also pledged their loyalty. The movement is gaining momentum.”

Ibe linked the coalition-building to growing fears of political monopolisation by the ruling APC.

He stated, “Just last week, the political landscape was trending towards a one-party dictatorship, reminiscent of the Abacha era. This coalition is a response to that threat.”

Describing Atiku’s efforts as statesmanlike, Ibe said the former vice president was committed to providing leadership that strengthens internal democracy and unity among the opposition.

Speaking on the challenges of coalition politics, Ibe compared the situation to newlyweds learning to live together despite cultural or regional differences.

He said, “That’s the nature of politics. Even a young marriage comes with its challenges. You’ve lived independently or been distant, and now you have to share space with someone from a completely different background.

“Perhaps the person you’re with isn’t even from your region, maybe they’re Igbo and you’re Igala. All these factors come into play, and you begin to learn to live together, tolerate one another, and make compromises.”

Ibe issued a clear warning to detractors of the emerging coalition, vowing that the movement will consolidate across all levels—ward, local government, and state.

“He (Atiku) will continue to provide direction and ensure the coalition gains traction at all levels. By the end of this year, anyone standing in the way of this coalition will have himself to blame,” he warned.