Nigeria: Confusion as Two ADA Groups Linked to Rival Coalitions Seek INEC Registration

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

A dispute over political identity has surfaced as two different associations, both using the acronym “ADA,” have submitted applications to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for registration as political parties.

The two groups—All Democratic Alliance and Advanced Democratic Alliance—are listed as numbers 109 and 110 respectively on INEC’s register of political associations. Though they share an acronym, they have different leadership, addresses, and reportedly align with opposing political interests.

The All Democratic Alliance (ADA) is led by Chief Akin Ricketts and is believed to be affiliated with an emerging coalition aimed at challenging President Bola Tinubu’s political base ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In contrast, the Advanced Democratic Alliance (ADA), chaired by Alhaji Ahmadu Suleiman with Zipporah Pius Miracles as secretary, operates independently with no publicly confirmed ties to any major coalition.

The Ricketts-led group operates from the UAC Complex on Samuel Ademulegun Street, Central Business District, Abuja, while the Suleiman-led faction is based at Frandriance Close, off Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse 2, Abuja.

With 110 groups seeking party registration, INEC is expected to conduct thorough reviews not only to confirm each group’s legal eligibility but also to address issues around name duplication and possible voter confusion as the 2027 election cycle approaches.