Confusion as two ‘ADA’ in INEC

Two political associations with the same acronym —ADA—are among the 110 groups jostling for official party registration with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The development has stirred confusion within political circles, raising questions about party identity and strategic positioning in the coming electoral contest.

One of the groups, All Democratic Alliance (ADA), is being promoted by Chief Akin Ricketts. It is believed to be one of the anti-Tinubu coalition’s special purpose vehicles ahead of 2027.

On INEC’s published list, this ADA is number 109.

But right behind it, at number 110, is another ADA: the Advanced Democratic Alliance, with Alhaji Ahmadu Suleiman as its protem chairman and Zipporah Pius Miracles as secretary.

Despite sharing the same acronym, the two groups have completely different leadership and headquarters. Ricketts’ ADA is based at UAC Complex, Samuel Ademulegun Street, Central Business District, Abuja, while Suleiman’s ADA operates from Frandriance Close, off Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse 2, Abuja.

With 110 political associations now formally applying for party status, INEC will have its hands full vetting not just the legality of these entities, but also their identities and public clarity.