Seek registration for a new political party named All Democratic Alliance (ADA).
In a significant political development, a coalition spearheaded by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has officially submitted an application to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) seeking registration for a new political party named All Democratic Alliance (ADA).
According to a report by Punch, the formal application—dated June 19 and acknowledged by INEC on Thursday—puts an end to weeks of speculation over the group’s political direction. Rather than reviving an old platform or merging with an existing party, the opposition coalition has opted to chart a fresh course entirely.
The proposed party is also backed by influential political figures including former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, and Dr. Umar Ardo, a former presidential aide and convener of the League of Northern Democrats. Together, they aim to offer Nigerians what they describe as a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 elections, with a central goal of challenging President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.
The coalition’s request comes shortly after INEC reiterated that registration of new political parties must strictly adhere to constitutional requirements and not be driven by public sentiments or political urgency.
The application letter, which Punch confirmed was obtained in Abuja, was jointly signed by Chief Akin A. Rickets (Protem National Chairman) and Abdullahi Elayo (Protem National Secretary). It stated:
“We respectfully write to the Independent National Electoral Commission, requesting the registration of our association, the All Democratic Alliance, as a political party… The name of the party shall be All Democratic Alliance with ADA as our acronym and ‘Justice for All’ as our slogan.”
Supporting documents—including the party’s constitution, manifesto, minutes of foundational meetings, and its symbolic logo—were also submitted. The party’s logo features a maize (corn) emblem, which the group says stands for abundance, resilience, and sustenance—values they intend to promote in governance.
As political realignments continue to shape Nigeria’s post-2023 landscape, the emergence of the ADA signals what could be a formidable opposition platform seeking to tap into growing public dissatisfaction and perceived governance lapses.
INEC is expected to begin its review of the submission in accordance with the Electoral Act and constitutional provisions guiding party registration.
