Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai have formally applied to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register a new political party, the All Democratic Alliance (ADA).
The application, submitted under the umbrella of the National Opposition Coalition Group, was dated June 19 and acknowledged by INEC on Friday. The move marks a significant political realignment, as prominent figures seek to unite under a new platform ahead of the 2027 elections.
ADA is also backed by former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and Umar Ardo, former aide to President Olusegun Obasanjo and convener of the League of Northern Democrats. The alliance aims to capitalise on growing public dissatisfaction with President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The letter to INEC was signed by ADA’s Protem National Chairman, Chief Akin A. Rickets, and Protem National Secretary, Abdullahi Elayo. It states: “We respectfully write to the Independent National Electoral Commission, requesting the registration of our association, the All Democratic Alliance, as a political party.”
The application included the party’s constitution, manifesto, logo, and minutes of its foundational meetings. ADA’s slogan is “Justice for All”, and its symbol—a maize plant—was chosen to represent abundance, resilience, and sustenance.
The development comes just days after INEC reiterated that compliance with constitutional and electoral guidelines is non-negotiable, regardless of public pressure.
The emergence of ADA, if approved, could reshape Nigeria’s political landscape by bringing together major opposition voices under one banner. The coalition says its vision is rooted in democratic reform, justice, and national renewal.
INEC is expected to scrutinise the application over the coming weeks. Approval would add a new dynamic force to Nigeria’s political race ahead of the next general election.
