Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has revealed that leaders within a faction of the African Democratic Congress have resolved to support whoever clinches the party’s presidential ticket for the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during an interview with DW Hausa, Abubakar addressed the ongoing leadership dispute within the party, stressing the importance of unity among members aligned with the faction led by David Mark.

The crisis deepened recently after the Independent National Electoral Commission announced it would not recognise either of the factions led by Mark and Nafiu Bala Gombe. INEC cited a Court of Appeal ruling delivered on March 12 and stated it would not engage with either group pending the outcome of a case before the Federal High Court.

Despite the internal rift, Abubakar maintained that party stakeholders have agreed to rally behind any candidate that emerges through the process. He noted that only a few aspirants are currently in the race, unlike previous contests in larger parties.

Since the Mark-led leadership assumed control in July 2025, several prominent politicians, including Peter Obi and Rotimi Amaechi, have shown interest in contesting the 2027 presidency under the ADC platform.

Abubakar also highlighted the increasing involvement of young people in the party, describing the ADC as a platform designed to empower youth and women. According to him, many of those preparing to contest elective positions across different levels are young Nigerians.

He dismissed concerns that the recent leadership tussle could weaken the party, insisting that membership continues to grow nationwide. He said people from various states are joining the ADC, indicating sustained interest despite the crisis.

However, the former vice-president alleged that external forces are fueling the internal conflict, claiming that certain individuals are being used to destabilise the party due to its rising popularity.

Without mentioning names directly, he questioned the legitimacy of some claims to party leadership, suggesting that there is evidence of outside influence in the ongoing dispute.