Nigeria’s opposition politics appears headed for a major realignment as former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, prepares to formally move to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
The planned defection, scheduled for December 31, 2025, in Enugu, is expected to end months of speculation surrounding Obi’s political future and his platform for another presidential bid.
Moreover, the move is not expected to be a solo decision.
Several serving lawmakers elected on the Labour Party platform, alongside influential political figures from the South-East, are reportedly set to align with Obi under the ADC banner.
Among those linked to the defection are Senators Victor Umeh of Anambra Central, Tony Nwoye of Anambra North, and Enyinnaya Abaribe of Abia South.
Also expected to participate are former presidential aide Ben Obi and prominent figures within the Obidient movement across the region.
However, uncertainty surrounds the position of Abia State Governor Alex Otti.
Although widely associated with Obi’s political bloc, sources indicate that Otti has recently been courted by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to return to its fold ahead of the 2027 governorship race.
Confirmation of Obi’s planned defection came from his spokesperson, Val Obienyim, who acknowledged the development when contacted.
“Yes, the plan is in motion, and the event will take place as scheduled,” he said.
Meanwhile, Senator Victor Umeh disclosed that the Enugu event would attract Obi’s supporters from across the South-East. According to him,
“Supporters from Abia, Anambra, Imo, and Ebonyi will converge in Enugu to witness and participate in this political transition.”
Furthermore, political insiders suggest that Obi’s move to the ADC is strategically tied to his ambition to contest the presidency again in 2027, with the party expected to provide him a clear pathway to its presidential ticket.
Reacting to the development, elder statesman and founding ADC figure, Chief Chekwas Okorie, described the move as a significant boost for Nigeria’s opposition space.
He said the defection could fundamentally alter political calculations ahead of the next general elections.
“A stronger ADC broadens democratic options and reassures Nigerians that political competition remains alive,” Okorie said.
“It compels all major parties to rethink their strategies and engage voters more seriously.”
Similarly, the National President of Njiko Igbo Forum, Rev. Okechukwu Obioha, expressed firm support for Obi’s political aspirations, describing him as a unifying figure.
However, he urged the ADC to uphold transparency and merit in selecting its flagbearer.
“Integrity must remain central to this process,” Obioha said. “For many Nigerians, Obi represents a credible path toward national renewal, and that trust should not be compromised.”
Hence, as political alliances continue to shift, Obi’s anticipated entry into the ADC could mark a defining moment in the buildup to the 2027 elections, intensifying competition and reshaping opposition dynamics nationwide.