2027: Why Atiku, Obi and Ameachi must unite in the ADC – Handshake Movement

The Handshake Movement (THM), a key pillar of patriots committed to building a truly inclusive, responsive and forward-thinking political force in Nigeria, has called on the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and all presidential aspirants on the party platform to unite.

The group said that across the country, millions of citizens face growing economic hardship, growing insecurity, unemployment, weakening institutions and a growing loss of public trust in government every day.

In a statement issued by its National Secretary, Engr Chinedu Okpalanma, said many Nigerians feel increasingly excluded from government and uncertain about the future of the country they call home.

“Even more worrying is the gradual erosion of democratic norms. Around the world, history has shown that democracies rarely collapse suddenly; they slowly weaken through the reduction of political alternatives, the manipulation of institutions, the weakening of opposition platforms and the normalization of political rule.

Nigeria must not go down this path.

“For many Nigerians seeking hope and credible alternatives, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has begun to emerge as a platform that can drive national renewal. This opportunity comes with a profound responsibility.

“It is therefore imperative that all presidential aspirants within the ADC approach the impending political competition with a deep sense of patriotism and historical duty. Personal ambition must never be allowed to fracture the very platform that millions of Nigerians now see as a possible vehicle for national rescue.

“The Handshake Movement firmly believes that leadership is ultimately defined by service, sacrifice and the ability to place national interest above personal aspirations. The ADC presidential primaries must therefore be conducted as a democratic process that strengthens the party, builds public trust and produces a candidate who can command the united support of all aspirants and their supporters.

Nigeria is bigger than any individual ambition.

“A divided opposition has historically strengthened entrenched power structures. If credible democratic forces fail to cooperate and coordinate, the space for political competition gradually narrows and democracy itself becomes weaker.

“This is why unity within the ADC is not simply a political preference: it is a democratic necessity.”

The group also called on Nigerians from all regions, religions and ethnic backgrounds to resist the old politics of division, adding that tribal and religious narratives have too often been used to distract citizens from the real issues of governance, accountability and national development. Our collective future must instead be anchored in competence, character, integrity and the ability to rebuild Nigeria.

“In addition to advocacy, THM is committed to contributing meaningfully to the process of national renewal. As a coalition of practitioners and policy thinkers, we intend to provide intellectual support, policy ideas, grassroots mobilization and strategic commitment that can help strengthen the ADC as a credible alternative that can take Nigeria forward.

“To this end, The Handshake Movement will undertake consultative engagements with the party’s presidential aspirants in order to promote dialogue, encourage unity and explore strategic avenues to build a broad democratic coalition capable of winning the trust of Nigerians.

“To the Nigerian people we say this: Democracy survives when citizens reject apathy. The journey to 2027 will require vigilance, participation and the courage to demand accountability from those they seek to lead.

“Nigeria deserves strong institutions.

Nigeria deserves a real political choice.

Nigeria deserves competent and responsible leadership.

This is a defining moment for our democracy.

“History will remember whether we chose division or unity, apathy or responsibility, personal ambition or national survival.

“The Handshake Movement stands firmly with all Nigerians who believe that our country must not fail.”