In a move that has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s political landscape, Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, has officially defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The high-profile announcement took place during a vibrant event in Enugu, the historic capital of Nigeria’s South-East region.
The Peter Obi ADC defection marks a significant realignment of opposition forces. As the 2027 general elections approach, this shift is expected to challenge the dominance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Enugu Declaration: “Nigeria’s Rescue Begins Tomorrow”
Addressing a massive crowd of supporters, Peter Obi declared that his move to the ADC is rooted in a commitment to systemic change. Interestingly, he identified January 1, 2026, as the symbolic start of a nationwide “rescue mission.”
During his passionate address, Obi vowed to confront the issue of election rigging, which has long plagued Nigeria’s democratic process. Furthermore, he sent a stern warning to the nation’s political class. He urged leaders to practice empathy, stating they must “not feast” while the citizens they lead are forced to fast due to economic hardship.
▌Internal Cracks: Why Peter Obi Left the Labour Party
The decision to join the ADC follows months of internal friction and leadership tussles within the Labour Party. While many expected the “Obidient” movement to remain under the LP banner, the persistent infighting made the platform increasingly unstable for a 2027 bid.
Consequently, the ADC is now being positioned as a more cohesive and formidable opposition platform. Political analysts suggest that the ADC’s structure may offer Obi a more organized machinery to engage voters across the country’s six geopolitical zones.
▌Alex Otti Remains in Labour Party
Despite the excitement surrounding the Peter Obi ADC defection, not all key allies are following suit. Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has confirmed he will remain with the Labour Party.
Speaking on his decision, Governor Otti noted that his membership in the Labour Party predates Obi’s 2022 entry. While Otti remains a close associate of Obi, his decision to stay behind suggests a potential split in the leadership of the movement that captivated young voters in 2023.
▌Looking Toward 2027
As 2025 draws to a close, the Nigerian political space is becoming increasingly polarized. By moving to the ADC, Peter Obi is seeking to build a “mega-coalition” capable of unseating the APC.
Supporters have hailed the move as a fresh start. However, the success of this defection depends on whether the ADC can successfully absorb the massive “Obidient” grassroots structure.
With the rescue mission set to officially begin on New Year’s Day, all eyes are now on how the ruling party and the remaining fragments of the Labour Party will respond to this new alliance.
