2027: Obi Picks Enugu for Defection to ADC, Says South-East Aims to Influence Presidential Race

Former Anambra State governor and 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, chose Enugu State for his defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to send a strong message ahead of the 2027 elections, according to Dr. Yunusa Tanko, leader of the Obidients Movement.

Speaking with Opinion Nigeria, Tanko explained that leaders and members of the Obidient Movement, who supported Obi’s 2023 campaign, were already in Enugu for the defection. He emphasized that Obi has long been part of the ADC coalition, and the event is meant to outline the way forward for his supporters nationwide.

On why Obi opted for Enugu instead of Awka, Anambra State, Tanko said: “Enugu is the historical capital of the East; it adds historical solidity when the East wants to make a statement.” He added, “The programme today is for Mr Obi to chart the path for his numerous supporters across the country ahead of the 2027 elections. The Obidient Movement is here in our numbers to give our full support.”

A national ADC leader told Opinion Nigeria that party officials, including the National Chairman, are expected to welcome Obi at the event, which is scheduled to take place at Nike Lake Hotel, Enugu.

Earlier this week, Obi declared his readiness to contest the 2027 presidential election, claiming he is best prepared for the role. His defection follows months of speculation.

A prominent Obidient Movement member explained Obi’s move: “Obi’s decision to join the ADC was difficult but inevitable. The ADC remains largely untainted by President Bola Tinubu and the APC. It is the only platform with leaders capable of genuinely challenging APC’s dominance. This is about our collective survival as a nation, not just him.”

The member added that Obi will join the ADC alongside federal and state lawmakers and influential political figures to strengthen his bargaining position. “In politics, compromise is often necessary to achieve goals,” he said.

An ADC chieftain welcomed Obi, noting: “Obi, like any other Nigerian, is welcome to join. Our doors are open, and our candidate selection process will be transparent.”

However, not all Obidient Movement members are convinced. Dr. Katch Onanuju, a pioneer member, expressed concern: “Obi has made up his mind to join the ADC, but some of us believe he has been cornered into a move that could harm his political future. We had hoped he would rebuild a new platform instead of joining the ADC, where entrenched interests may work against him. Nevertheless, we wish him luck in this new chapter.”

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