ADC shuts door on Peter Obi’s 2027 bid without Labour Party resignation

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has categorically ruled out the possibility of Peter Obi, the former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, contesting under its platform in the 2027 general election, unless he formally quits his current party.

Despite rising speculation and Obi’s recent engagements with ADC members—sparking talks of a defection or strategic alliance—the party has taken a firm stance, stating that only card-carrying, fully committed members are eligible to vie for its presidential ticket.

In an official statement issued by the ADC’s leadership, the party emphasized that it would not bend its rules for any individual, no matter how prominent.

“According to Article 8 of our primary election guidelines, any aspirant must not belong to any other political party. In addition, if the aspirant previously belonged to one, they must have officially resigned before seeking to contest under the ADC,” the statement read.

The development delivers a blow to sections of Obi’s support base who had anticipated a strategic realignment with the ADC, especially given his widespread popularity and the growing momentum of a possible opposition coalition ahead of 2027.

Obi’s spokesperson, Tanko Yunusa, confirmed that the former Anambra State governor remains a member of the Labour Party.

“Well, that will be made public if he decides to do that. At the moment, he is still a member of the Labour Party,” Yunusa said, leaving Obi’s possible exit from LP open-ended, but presently unresolved.

Meanwhile, the ADC appears to have extended a smoother path for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, both of whom have reportedly received internal clearance from the party’s National Executive Committee to participate in its forthcoming presidential primaries.

Both Atiku and Amaechi are no longer officially members of their previous parties—the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC), respectively—thereby fulfilling the ADC’s constitutional requirement for presidential aspirants.

According to party insiders, their clearance is based on verifiable documentation of their political status and adherence to the party’s vetting protocols.

“The electoral committee of the party shall conduct primary elections that will produce credible candidates that reflect the choice of the people,” the ADC said in a separate communique, reinforcing its commitment to transparency and democratic values.

Party officials have stressed that ADC’s guidelines are non-negotiable and must be respected by all potential aspirants. While welcoming wider opposition engagement, the ADC insists it will not compromise its internal controls in exchange for short-term political gain.

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The party’s constitution allows for direct, indirect, or consensus primaries, depending on decisions taken by its executive council. However, the overarching principle remains loyalty to the party and adherence to its rulebook.

The ADC, which has branded itself as a reform-oriented political force, believes that maintaining these standards is essential for credibility as it positions itself as a third-force alternative to Nigeria’s two dominant political blocs.

“We are a party that upholds discipline, accountability, and democratic ideals. The rules are not made for selective enforcement. Whether it is Peter Obi or anyone else, the guidelines apply equally,” an ADC source said.

As 2027 draws nearer, the latest development signals a tightening of party structures across the political landscape, with internal discipline and strategic positioning taking center stage.

While Obi remains a key political figure nationally, his next political move—especially regarding his status with the Labour Party—may prove decisive in shaping the future of the broader opposition coalition.