The African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Monday began screening more than 70 governorship aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The exercise took place in Abuja, with aspirants from Adamawa, Delta, Benue, Zamfara, Plateau, Bauchi, Jigawa, Lagos, Nasarawa, Rivers, and other states appearing before the party’s screening panels. ADC officials said over 100 aspirants are expected to take part, with two panels handling 35 candidates each daily.
Among those screened were former Attorney-General of the Federation Abubakar Malami, representing Kebbi; former Adamawa governor Senator Mohammed Jibrilla Bindow; Lagos 2023 Labour Party candidate Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour; and Delta politician Great Ogboru.
Also in attendance were Senator Mohamed Onawo of Nasarawa, retired General John Surai of Plateau, Dr Shehu Ahmad Issa of Zamfara, and several former lawmakers and commissioners from across the country.
Senator Onawo, who represents Nasarawa South, said the process was transparent and professional. He stated that the committee reviewed all documents and asked relevant questions to assess the readiness of each aspirant.
ADC Deputy National Publicity Secretary Queen Okiyi confirmed that the screening went smoothly. She said the party is committed to following due process in selecting its candidates for the 2027 polls.
Okiyi added that the exercise would continue on Tuesday, while the screening of presidential aspirants has been rescheduled for Wednesday. Those expected include former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers governor Rotimi Amaechi, and Mohammed Hayatu-Deen.
The ADC said it is working to ensure only qualified candidates emerge from the process. The party has been positioning itself as an alternative ahead of the next election cycles.
