The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a stern warning to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal, and other prominent coalition figures, urging them to formally register with the party before the end of the year.

According to the ADC, failure to obtain valid membership cards at their respective wards will lead to loss of recognition as members, regardless of their involvement in coalition activities.

The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, reaffirmed that all coalition leaders must resign from their current parties and register fully with the ADC in order to be constitutionally recognized.

Reinforcing the position, the Adamawa State Chairman of the ADC, Shehu Yohanna, stressed that Atiku and others cannot make decisions for the party without being duly registered.

He stated:

“Atiku Abubakar should go to his ward in Jada Local Government and register. Babachir should go to his ward in Hong Local Government and register. That is the only way they can be treated as legitimate members of the party. You cannot be taking decisions for a party you are not constitutionally a member of.”

Yohanna added that only holders of valid membership cards would be recognized as legitimate members, insisting that anything short of this undermines the party’s structure.

He also expressed confidence that the ADC is well-positioned to challenge for power in 2027, pointing to what he described as the “unfriendly policies” of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as a factor that could sway voters.

“The unfriendly policies of the present government have paved the way for our party to take over and reposition the country for authentic democracy,” he said.

The ultimatum has sparked renewed speculation that Atiku may be eyeing the ADC’s presidential ticket amid the rising influence of former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi within the party.