A prominent figure within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Comrade Sylvester Edet Okon, has made a bold declaration concerning the party's presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections. In an exclusive interview on Sunday, January 11, 2026, Okon asserted that former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, will secure the ADC presidential ticket.
Obi's Candidacy and Call for Atiku to Step Aside
Comrade Sylvester Edet Okon, who recently defected from the Labour Party to the ADC, stated that Peter Obi does not need to defeat former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in a contest because Obi is already the ADC's presidential candidate. He described Atiku's potential move to contest within the ADC as "initial gragra," a term implying unnecessary drama or struggle.
Okon directly appealed to Atiku Abubakar, urging him to step down for Peter Obi. He based his appeal on the principle of rotational presidency, emphasizing that it is the turn of southern Nigeria to produce the president in 2027. "Atiku has been contesting for years and if he is a patriotic Nigerian, it is time for him to be an elder statesman and step down," Okon stated during the chat in Calabar, Cross River State.
The Power of the Obidient Movement in ADC
The chieftain explained the mechanism behind Peter Obi's assured ticket, pointing to the massive influence of the Obidient Movement. He revealed that the movement has successfully entered and gained significant access within the ADC's coalition structure.
Members of the Obidient Movement now hold executive positions in the ADC across numerous local government areas in Nigeria. This widespread infiltration and unity, according to Okon, make Obi's emergence as the flagbearer inevitable. "The Obidient Movement's massive presence in ADC ensures Peter Obi secures the ticket. Our unity and vision for a new Nigeria make it inevitable!" he declared.
Broader Political Context and PDP's Moves
This development occurs amidst a shifting political landscape. Recall that the Obidient Movement had previously ruled out Peter Obi's return to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where internal crises threaten the party's stability ahead of 2027.
In a related move, the PDP has confirmed plans to consult with key political figures, including Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar, as part of its strategy to reposition itself for the next election cycle. This was disclosed by PDP South-South Chairman, Emmanuel Ogidi, following meetings with former Nigerian leaders.
The assertions by ADC's Sylvester Edet Okon set the stage for a dynamic pre-election period, highlighting the ongoing realignments and the potent force of grassroots political movements like the Obidients in determining party candidacies.
