The African Democratic Congress has called on the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to take a clear stance on his political future as conversations around the growing coalition continue to evolve.
Party officials maintained that while Obi remains an influential voice within the coalition, he must decide if he intends to fully commit to the movement.
They stressed that the ADC is not in the business of compelling any political figure into alignment.
Obi recently stated that the coalition’s progress appears hampered by unresolved decisions on zoning and allocation of top leadership roles. According to him, clarity around those issues is critical for lasting political unity.
Despite raising concerns, he applauded the involvement of respected figures such as former Senate President David Mark and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, whom he described as “individuals with institutional memory and the capacity to reposition national politics.”
However, Bolaji Abdullahi, ADC spokesperson, dismissed suggestions that zoning is currently a priority.
In his words, the party is focused on defining its identity to Nigerians rather than debating geopolitical distribution.
“Nigeria is still asking what the coalition intends to change. Until we answer that convincingly, zoning is a distraction,” Abdullahi stated, adding, “If zoning must be discussed, it will be at the right time, not as a precondition.”
He explained that the coalition is building a “credible alternative for Nigerians,” and urged Obi to decide whether he wants to be part of that journey.
Abdullahi suggested that the party hopes Obi eventually aligns with its political blueprint, noting, “His influence and experience would strengthen what we are creating. We genuinely want him on board, but the decision is ultimately his.”
He also pushed back against Obi’s suggestion that the coalition lacks stability, arguing that its nationwide expansion within months proves otherwise.
“We have functional structures in more than two dozen states without relying on sitting public officials. That reflects planning and stability,” he noted.
ADC leadership encouraged Obi to invest politically at the state level if truly interested in shaping the coalition, particularly in his home state.
“Many leaders are already strengthening the party where they come from. That grassroots commitment is what we also expect from him.”
Moreover, Abdullahi emphasised that the coalition’s mission is broader than membership debates.
He added, “Nigerians are searching for a platform that reflects competence and creativity in governance. Our goal is to meet that demand and reset the political culture.”
The coming weeks are expected to determine whether Obi takes a definitive position, one that could either reinforce the coalition’s momentum or leave its future direction open to speculation.