By Peace Erewunmi

A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has unveiled Prof. Chris Uba as its presidential candidate and Shamsudeen Barikindo as his running mate for the 2027 general election. The announcement was made by the faction led by Nafiu Bala Gombe, which maintains that it conducted valid primary elections in line with the Electoral Act.

According to the faction’s leadership, the presidential ticket emerged through a consensus process after other aspirants voluntarily stepped down and endorsed Chris Uba as the sole candidate. The faction said the presidential ticket was zoned to Southern Nigeria in line with the principles of equity, fairness, and federal character.

During the presentation, the faction also announced that Shamsudeen Barikindo had been selected as the vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 election. Party officials described the pairing as one that reflects regional balance and their vision for national unity.

The development comes amid an ongoing leadership dispute within the ADC. While the Bala Gombe-led faction has presented Chris Uba as its presidential candidate, another leadership group within the party has laid claim to the party’s structure and continues to challenge the legitimacy of rival decisions. The leadership crisis has resulted in legal disputes and competing claims over the party’s direction.

Political analysts note that the emergence of candidates by one faction does not automatically settle the question of who will eventually represent the ADC in the 2027 presidential election. The final position will depend on the outcome of the party’s internal disputes, court decisions, and recognition by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The faction expressed confidence that its candidates would provide credible leadership and promised to campaign on issues such as economic growth, national unity, security, and institutional reforms. Party officials also called on members to remain united despite the ongoing leadership disagreements.

The announcement adds another dimension to the evolving political landscape ahead of the 2027 general election, as parties continue consultations, realignments, and legal battles over leadership and candidate selection. Observers say the eventual outcome of the ADC’s internal crisis will play a significant role in determining the party’s participation in the presidential race.