The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a strong warning to former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, urging him not to abandon the opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The caution follows comments made by Yunusa Tanko, Director-General of the Obidient Movement, who stated on Monday that Peter Obi would contest the 2027 presidency “with or without” the ADC coalition ticket.
Tanko also called on the coalition to zone the presidential ticket to the South.
Reacting swiftly, Comrade Abayomi Bello of the ADC Youth Vanguard warned that if Tanko’s position truly reflects Obi’s thinking, the former Anambra governor could be jeopardizing his political future.
“In the light of reports that Mr. Peter Obi is considering leaving the ADC coalition should he not secure the presidential ticket, we will like to warn that if this truly represents his thinking, the move could mark the end of his political trajectory,” Bello stated.
Bello questioned whether Tanko’s declaration was sanctioned by Obi, emphasizing that the former governor had built a brand based on principle, youth inclusion, and nation-first politics — values that could be undermined by such a move.
“We doubt that Mr. Tanko actually has Peter Obi’s mandate to say what he said. We believe that Mr. Obi has cultivated a public image rooted in principle, youth empowerment, and nation-first politics. Therefore, walking away from a coalition because of personal ambition contradicts the very foundation of his appeal.”
Highlighting Obi’s past shifts between political parties — from APGA to PDP, then Labour Party — Bello warned that another defection might damage his credibility and alienate supporters.
“With a history of multiple party changes—from APGA to PDP to Labour—and now potentially another exit, Nigerians may begin to see Mr. Obi not as a visionary reformer, but as yet another self-interested politician.”
He urged Obi to stay and play a leadership role within the coalition.
“Coalitions require patience, negotiation, and compromise. If Mr. Obi departs the ADC coalition prematurely, he risks losing the trust of allies, alienating key stakeholders, and frustrating a youth base already disillusioned by fragmented opposition.”
“Rather than exit, Mr. Obi has an opportunity to lead from within—by mentoring new leaders, influencing policy direction, and building long-term political structures. That is how legacies are built. Anything else could spell political isolation,” Bello concluded.
