Atiku, El-Rufai-Led Opposition Coalition Applies to INEC to Register New Party – All Democratic Alliance (ADA)

A major opposition movement under the banner of the National Opposition Coalition Group has officially submitted a request to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the registration of a new political party named the All Democratic Alliance (ADA).

The coalition is spearheaded by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, signaling a bold political repositioning ahead of the next general election cycle.

INEC confirmed the reception of the group’s application, which was dated June 19 and formally acknowledged by the commission on Friday.

This submission affirms the coalition’s active intention to establish an alternative political platform, potentially disrupting the current national political structure.

Among the influential figures backing the creation of ADA are former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, Umar Ardo—a former aide to ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo and the convener of the League of Northern Democrats. Together, these political heavyweights are leveraging increasing public discontent and evolving political alignments to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the upcoming elections.

The coalition’s move follows closely on INEC’s recent warning that any political group seeking registration must strictly adhere to the country’s constitutional and electoral procedures, regardless of external pressures or popular demand.

The formal letter to INEC was co-signed by Chief Akin A. Rickets, the Protem National Chairman of the group, and Abdullahi Elayo, the Protem National Secretary.

In the letter, they stated:

“We humbly approach the Independent National Electoral Commission to request the formal registration of our association under the name All Democratic Alliance (ADA), following the resolution passed by the Nigerian National Coalition Group, our sponsor.”

According to the application, the party’s official slogan is “Justice for All”, while its acronym remains ADA.

Included with the submission were all required documentation such as the party’s constitution, manifesto, logo, and foundational meeting minutes.

The proposed symbol of the ADA is a maize (corn), which the founders say symbolizes abundance, resilience, and sustenance—key values the party aims to promote nationally.

The letter further highlighted:

“Attached to this request are our party’s full manifesto—outlining our ideological direction—as well as the constitution, which frames our legal, structural, and organizational identity as a political body.”