Peter Obi, former presidential candidate of the Labour Party and ex-governor of Anambra State, has formally defected to the African Democratic Congress, a coalition-backed party positioning itself for the 2027 general elections.
Obi announced his decision on Wednesday at a well-attended political gathering held at the Nike Lake Resort in Enugu, a development that has already reshaped conversations within Nigeria’s opposition space and intensified early calculations for the next presidential race.
Speaking at the event, Obi framed his defection as part of a broader political rescue plan for the country, stressing that the coming year would be decisive. He said the coalition’s focus was to lay the groundwork early, rather than repeat what he described as costly mistakes from previous election cycles.
“We are ending this year with the hope that in 2026 we will begin a rescue journey,” Obi said, drawing applause from party leaders and supporters present at the venue.
The former Labour Party flagbearer also issued a strong warning against electoral malpractice, declaring that the coalition would confront any attempt at rigging in the 2027 elections through lawful means. According to him, the opposition must begin preparations immediately, particularly on issues that have repeatedly ended up in court after elections.
Obi pointed to candidate eligibility and academic credentials as a major lesson from past legal battles, urging political actors to act early. He said there was still a one-year window for aspirants to verify their educational records and settle potential disputes before the official campaign season begins.
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“We do not want to return to court again only to be told it is a pre-election matter,” Obi stated. “The pre-election process should start now.”
The event was attended by several key figures within the ADC, including the party’s national chairman, former Senate President David Mark, whose presence signaled the seriousness of the coalition’s intent and the growing weight of Obi’s entry into the party.
Obi’s defection is expected to have far-reaching implications for opposition politics, particularly among youth voters and urban constituencies that rallied behind his 2023 presidential bid. Political observers say the move could strengthen the ADC’s national profile while further weakening the Labour Party’s grip on its most prominent political figure.
As alliances continue to shift and early maneuvering for 2027 gathers pace, Obi’s move to the ADC marks one of the most significant political developments of the year.
More details are expected to emerge as the coalition unveils its broader strategy in the coming days.
