ADC Rules Out Zoning for 2027 Presidential Primaries — El-Rufai Promises Open Contests

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has confirmed that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) will not adopt zoning or consensus arrangements in its presidential primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking on Trust TV, El-Rufai emphasized the party’s commitment to free, fair, and transparent primaries, assuring that all aspirants will have equal opportunities to compete without coercion or forced withdrawals.

“At the top level, we are preparing our manifesto and platform. We are also working on getting our presidential, governorship, and other aspirants to come together and agree on a process that guarantees free and fair primaries,” El-Rufai said.

He added that the party has resolved against any zoning arrangement, and no aspirant will be pressured to step down in favor of another. “There will be no zoning, no consensus, and no forcing anyone to step down. Everyone will be given the opportunity to contest, and whoever wins will be supported by all,” he stated.

Addressing doubts about the party’s grassroots influence, El-Rufai insisted that the ADC’s growing national presence is evident. “If you don’t think the ADC has grassroots support, ask some members of the National Assembly to go to their constituencies without gathering soldiers and police to guard them,” he added.

The ADC leadership is finalizing its manifesto and policy platform while engaging presidential, governorship, and other aspirants to foster internal unity ahead of the primaries.