Opposition Coalition Applies to INEC for Registration of New Political Party, ADA

The National Opposition Coalition Group has formally applied to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the registration of a new political party, the All Democratic Alliance (ADA).

The coalition, reportedly led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, submitted its application dated June 19, which was acknowledged by INEC on Friday.

This development signals the coalition’s intention to float a new political platform ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The formation of ADA is backed by other prominent political figures, including former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and Umar Ardo, convener of the League of Northern Democrats and former aide to President Olusegun Obasanjo. The new party is expected to ride on public dissatisfaction and ongoing political realignments as it seeks to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.

This application comes just days after INEC warned political groups that all procedures for party registration must strictly adhere to constitutional and electoral guidelines, irrespective of political pressure or public sentiment.

The letter of application, jointly signed by Chief Akin A. Rickets, Protem National Chairman, and Abdullahi Elayo, Protem National Secretary, reads in part:

“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.”

Alongside the application, the coalition submitted key documents, including the party’s constitution, manifesto, logo, and minutes from its foundational meetings.

The proposed party symbol prominently features maize (corn), which the coalition says represents “abundance, resilience, and sustenance” — ideals central to its vision.

“We have further attached our manifesto encompassing details of our party ideology and our constitution providing the legal framework that defines our identity, structures, and organisation,” the letter added.

INEC is expected to review the application in line with its guidelines before deciding on the approval of ADA as a registered political party.