Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has addressed speculation about leaving the African Democratic Congress (ADC) amid the party’s leadership crisis.

Speaking in an interview with BBC pidgin, Atiku stated that defection was unnecessary, adding that he remains committed to the party.

Atiku said the party believes the courts will recognise David Mark’s leadership.

He said, “We believe the trial court will dispense the case as soon as possible, even before Congress. Observers are not lawyers, but we are confident the court will uphold David Mark’s leadership.”

Asked about joining other political parties due to the crisis, Atiku stressed that ADC has established structures and significant investments, making defection unnecessary.

“Some of the parties don’t have structures. ADC is a coalition of the movement we started about one and a half years ago, so a lot of appropriation has gone into it. We are focused on concluding the judicial process and continuing our activities,” he stated.

On the possibility of not securing the ADC presidential ticket, Atiku described the party as a coalition of leaders, including strong contenders like Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, saying: “We have agreed… we are all leaders.”

The former vice president’s comments come as ADC navigates internal disputes ahead of the 2027 general elections.