Isaac Samuel
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has received a formal application for the registration of a new political party, the All Democratic Alliance (ADA) sponsored by a coalition of opposition leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi.
The application, dated June 19 and acknowledged by the Commission on Friday, marks a critical step in the coalition’s effort to establish an alternative political force ahead of the 2027 general elections.
It also lays to rest ongoing speculation over whether the group would revive an existing political platform or create a new one.
The initiative is being driven by the National Opposition Coalition Group, which includes other influential figures such as Dr. Umar Ardo, convener of the League of Northern Democrats and a former aide to ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo.
According to the documents submitted to INEC, the proposed party will bear the name All Democratic Alliance, with the acronym ADA and the slogan “Justice for All.” Its symbol a maize (corn) is said to represent abundance, resilience, and sustenance.
INEC’s receipt of the application comes just days after the Commission cautioned political groups that no amount of political pressure or public sentiment would override the requirement for strict adherence to constitutional and electoral guidelines in the registration of political parties.
The application was jointly signed by Chief Akin A. Rickets, Protem National Chairman, and Abdullahi Elayo, Protem National Secretary of the association. A copy of the letter states:
“We respectfully write to the Independent National Electoral Commission, requesting the registration of our association, the All Democratic Alliance, as a political party.
“This is a sequel to the decision taken by the Nigerian National Coalition Group to sponsor our association for full registration.
“The name of the party shall be All Democratic Alliance with ADA as our acronym and ‘Justice for All’ as our slogan”
The coalition also submitted key documents, including the party’s draft constitution, manifesto, proposed logo, and minutes of its foundational meetings.
With this formal request, the opposition coalition is positioning the ADA as a political alternative capable of challenging the dominance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and presenting a unified front at the next national polls.
