Cracks are emerging within the African Democratic Congress over the presidential ambition of former Anambra State Gov. Peter Obi, as his supporters insist he must secure the party’s ticket ahead of the 2027 election or risk a mass walkout.
Findings showed that the tension stems from pressure by Obi’s followers, popularly known as Obidients, who argue that he should be the ADC’s presidential flag bearer. Party leaders, particularly from the North, are said to be uncomfortable with what they describe as the domineering posture of Obi’s promoters and have begun to distance themselves from his camp.
Obi, a former governor of Anambra State and the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in 2023, joined the ADC on Dec. 31, 2025, in Enugu. He is a key figure in the opposition coalition that later adopted the ADC as its platform.
Before defecting, Obi pledged to serve a single term if elected president and held alliance talks with New Nigeria Peoples Party leader Rabiu Kwankwaso, who has been courted by the ADC for a possible joint ticket.
However, members of the Obidient Movement who moved with Obi from the Labour Party have rejected any arrangement that does not place him at the top of the ticket. They argue that the South should retain power for eight years before it rotates back to the North.
One of Obi’s outspoken loyalists, activist Aisha Yesufu, warned she would oppose the ADC if Obi accepts a vice-presidential slot. In a video that circulated online shortly after his defection, Yesufu said she would work against any ticket that presents Obi as a running mate.
Political economist Pat Utomi echoed a similar stance, saying he would withdraw support if Obi settles for the vice presidency. Speaking on Channels Television’s “Politics Today” on Jan. 1, Utomi said he would walk away the moment Obi accepts a subordinate position on any ticket.
The growing disagreement has heightened uncertainty within the ADC as the party seeks to position itself ahead of the 2027 presidential race.
