The coalition of opposition political actors pushing for a realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections has insisted it has not jettisoned its bid to register the All Democratic Alliance (ADA) as a new political party, despite its current affiliation with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Reacting to reports suggesting the coalition may have dropped the ADA registration process following the adoption of the ADC as its operational platform, Dr Umar Ardo, Secretary of the coalition’s Sub-Committee on the Feasibility of a New Party, said on Sunday that such claims are unfounded.

According to Ardo, the coalition is pursuing a dual-track strategy strengthening ties with the ADC while continuing its formal engagement with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for ADA’s registration.

“The coalition is anchored on a two-pronged approach. Yes, the ADC is there, but we are not abandoning our application for the registration of ADA,” Ardo stated.

He explained that while the ADC currently serves as a temporary vehicle for the coalition’s mobilisation efforts, the ultimate aim remains to establish a distinct political identity through the ADA.

“Our application is still undergoing INEC’s processes and procedures. I believe by next week, we will get clarity,” Ardo said, referencing INEC’s recent announcement about pre-qualifying political associations to upload their particulars via its party registration portal.

He emphasised that the formation of the ADA is not a fallback plan but a deliberate move to reshape Nigeria’s opposition politics. “It was the considered opinion of the feasibility committee, chaired by former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, that registering a new political party isn’t just a tactical manoeuvre. It is a bold and strategic move,” he said.

Ardo further noted that the ADA is being designed to serve as a credible alternative to the dominant political formations, with a mission to unify opposition stakeholders, mobilise public sentiment, and offer a fresh vision to Nigerians disillusioned with the current administration.

He admitted, however, that the appointment of former Senate President David Mark as the ADC chairman may have contributed to the perception that the ADC and the coalition are now inseparable.

“The only mistake is the ADC getting Senator David Mark as chairman, which has given the impression that the ADC is the coalition,” he said.

Nonetheless, Ardo maintained confidence that the ADA would eventually secure registration and play a leading role in the 2027 elections. “There is no doubt that Nigerians are tired of the maladministration of the Bola Tinubu administration,” he added.

He expressed optimism that once ADA is approved by INEC, it would serve as the central vehicle to galvanise opposition efforts and present a formidable alternative in the coming elections.