A burgeoning coalition of Nigerian opposition politicians, ostensibly formed to challenge the ruling party in the 2027 presidential election, is reportedly facing significant internal turmoil. The primary source of contention revolves around the choice of a political platform and the persistent presidential aspirations of the group's leading figures. Key actors initially associated with the coalition, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Chibuike Amaechi, and Nasir El-Rufai, are said to be engaged in behind-the-scenes maneuvers, raising concerns that the collective accord might jeopardize their individual ambitions.

The debate is sharply divided between two main approaches: merging into an existing political party or registering an entirely new one. Dr. Umar Ardo, a convener of the League of Northern Democrats and a proponent of a new party, argues that this path offers a surer route to victory by avoiding the numerous hurdles and landmines associated with existing platforms. His group has formally applied to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the registration of a new entity, the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), initially considered as a potential platform, although it was also referred to as the League of National Democrats (LND).

However, the proposed adoption of ADA has become a major source of controversy. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, through his Special Assistant on Media, Abdulrasheed Shehu, has emphatically denied that ADA has either been registered or adopted by the coalition partners, urging media caution. Similarly, Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu, the national chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), vehemently dismissed ADA as 'fake' and 'propaganda', asserting that the coalition had long settled on its chosen platform, which he suggested would be unveiled soon, implying ADC itself is the preferred vehicle. Babachir Lawal, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), further complicated matters by denying the involvement of Atiku, Obi, Amaechi, and El-Rufai in the ADA initiative, citing time constraints for forming a new party before the 2027 general elections.

Amidst these disputes, a formal application for ADA's registration was submitted to INEC by the National Opposition Coalition Group (NOCG), chaired by former Senate President David Mark. The application, signed by protem national chairman Chief Akin A. Rickets and protem national secretary Abdullahi Elayo, specified 'Justice for All' as its slogan and a maize symbol representing abundance. This official step, however, stands in stark contrast to the widespread denials and internal disagreements.

Adding another layer to the intricate political landscape, Kenneth Okonkwo, a prominent member of the new political coalition, stated on Channels Television's Sunday Politics that the coalition's presidential ticket would not be zoned, allowing aspirants from all regions to contest. Okonkwo, who was Peter Obi's spokesperson in 2023, proposed a six-year single tenure for the presidency to ensure stability and fairness. He also strongly criticized the current Tinubu administration, deeming it the 'worst government in Nigeria's history' and specifically condemning the floating of the naira.

Further commentary from All Progressives Congress (APC) founding member, Osita Okechukwu, highlighted the potential difficulties the ADA promoters might face, not just in registration but in managing the ambitions of its members. Okechukwu also criticized their