The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has reaffirmed that former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, remains eligible to vie for its presidential ticket in the 2027 general elections, even though he still retains his membership in the LP.
This clarification comes amid mounting speculation over Obi’s status within the newly formed opposition coalition, following the exits of prominent figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former APC chieftain Rotimi Amaechi.
Speaking in an interview with the Nigerian Tribune, the ADC’s interim National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, disclosed that Obi and former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai were both granted “special concessions” by the party due to ongoing political strategies.
“Peter Obi is part of the coalition. He and Mallam Nasir El-Rufai were given special concessions by the party because their followers were given tickets to contest elections,” Abdullahi stated.
He explained that the arrangement was deliberate, allowing the two politicians to remain in their original parties temporarily to support loyal candidates who are already contesting elections under the LP and SDP platforms.
“The understanding is that since their followers had secured tickets in LP and SDP, they stay back until the processes are completed. They will be allowed to join fully after the elections,” Abdullahi added.
Peter Obi’s supporters are currently participating in the upcoming Anambra State governorship election under the LP banner, while El-Rufai is backing candidates in federal constituency bye-elections under the Social Democratic Party (SDP).