Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has formally defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), marking a major realignment in Nigeria’s political opposition as the country gears up for the 2027 general election. Obi made the announcement at a high-profile rally in Enugu on 31 December 2025, describing the move as the beginning of a “rescue journey” to steer Nigeria toward better governance and inclusive development.
In his address, Obi pledged that the opposition under ADC would resist any attempt to rig the 2027 polls by every lawful and legitimate means, warning that weak institutions and electoral malpractice must no longer define Nigeria’s democratic process. He called for strengthened voter integrity systems, strict compliance with election laws and transparent candidate qualifications, asserting that credible elections are essential to national renewal.
Obi framed his defection as part of a broader coalition effort led by former Senate President David Mark aimed at uniting opposition leaders from across the country. He urged political stakeholders and citizens to rally behind the ADC platform to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and deliver accountable leadership after years of socio-economic difficulties, insecurity, and governance concerns.
The event was attended by prominent politicians including former Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha, Senators Ben Obi, Victor Umeh, Tony Nwoye and Gilbert Nnaji, among others — signalling a significant consolidation of opposition figures around the ADC ahead of the next election cycle.
