The Action Democratic Party (ADP) has dismissed speculation that its newly elected presidential candidate, Aliyu Bin Abass, was chosen as a temporary flagbearer for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
The party’s denial followed growing rumours after Bin Abass, regarded as a close associate of Atiku, emerged as the ADP’s presidential candidate through a consensus arrangement at the party’s national convention in Abuja.
Delegates from across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory endorsed his candidature after consultations involving party leaders, aspirants and stakeholders.
Bin Abass’ emergence has sparked discussions within political circles, with some observers suggesting the ADP could serve as an alternative platform for opposition forces if challenges within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) affect its participation in the 2027 elections.
However, the ADP maintained that there is no agreement or plan for Bin Abass to relinquish the ticket to Atiku.
Reacting to the claims, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Sani Dawop, described the reports as baseless and lacking any factual foundation.
“I don’t know anything about that. I’m sure this is beer-parlour rumours,” Dawop said.
Despite the absence of any official confirmation from either the ADP leadership or Atiku’s camp, political analysts believe the speculation reflects the shifting alliances and calculations already shaping the opposition landscape ahead of the next general election.
In his acceptance speech, Bin Abass described his nomination as the start of a new political movement focused on national renewal, inclusive governance, economic growth and youth development.
He said Nigeria had reached a critical stage in its history and called on citizens across ethnic, religious and political divides to unite behind a common vision of progress, justice and prosperity.
“The journey towards a stronger, more prosperous and more united Federal Republic of Nigeria begins now. A new movement, a new direction, a new Nigeria is set,” he declared.
Earlier, ADP National Chairman, Yabagi Yusuf Sani, said the convention marked a significant step in the party’s efforts to offer Nigerians a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 elections.
According to him, the country is facing serious challenges, including economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment and declining public trust in institutions, requiring leaders committed to service rather than personal gain.
Sani urged party members to remain united and prioritise the party’s collective interests, stressing that the presidential consensus process was conducted in line with the party’s constitution and internal procedures.
He also reaffirmed the ADP’s commitment to addressing issues such as insecurity, the rising cost of living, corruption, weak infrastructure, and deficiencies in education and healthcare.
The convention also featured the inauguration of newly elected and returning members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), as leaders pledged to strengthen internal democracy and expand the party’s grassroots structures nationwide.