A new political movement spearheaded by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai is facing early turbulence following a documentation error in its application to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The coalition, operating under the name All Democratic Alliance (ADA), formally submitted a request for party registration in a letter dated June 19.
However, the letter mistakenly addressed the recipient as “The Chairman, Independent National Commission,” omitting the crucial word “Electoral” from the name of the electoral body—Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Legal analysts and political observers have noted that while the omission may appear minor, it could be interpreted as a breach of procedural accuracy—an issue that could stall or invalidate the application.
Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act 2022 both demand strict compliance with all registration protocols for political associations seeking party status.
The letter, co-signed by Akin Ricketts (interim national chairman) and Abdullahi Musa Elayo (pro tem national secretary), outlines ADA’s core identity and slogan: “Justice for All.”
The coalition submitted the application on behalf of the Nigerian National Coalition Group, which is backing the political formation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
A stamped copy of the application, reportedly received by INEC headquarters on June 20, confirms official receipt.
However, it remains unclear whether the commission will overlook the naming error or request a corrected submission.
Beyond the clerical issue, ADA must meet additional legal criteria, including maintaining a registered head office in Abuja, ensuring openness to all Nigerians, and providing full documentation of party officers.
Section 75(1) of the Electoral Act also requires that registration must occur at least 12 months before any general election—a deadline the group is racing to meet.
This development comes amid growing realignments within Nigeria’s opposition, as key political figures like Atiku, El-Rufai, and others seek new strategies to challenge the ruling party ahead of 2027.
ADA’s formation adds to an evolving landscape of coalition-building and rebranding efforts that signal deep shifts in the country’s political dynamics.
Whether INEC will accept the current application or demand a corrected version will be a critical first test of the coalition’s organizational readiness and legal compliance.
