Political Heavyweight Okechukwu Chikwendu Defects to ADC, Endorses Peter Obi for 2027 Presidency
In a significant political development ahead of the 2027 general elections, Hon. (Engr) Sir Okechukwu Chikwendu, a prominent figure and former national chairman of the All Grand Alliance Party (AGAP), has officially joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The defection ceremony took place on Sunday, April 12, at his country home in Otolo Nnewi Ward 3, Anambra State, marking a notable shift in the local political landscape.
Mass Defection and Support for Peter Obi
Chikwendu was accompanied by hundreds of supporters, including Ambassador Alloy Ubah, as they embraced the ADC in the presence of party executives and key stakeholders from Nnewi North Local Government Area. During the event, Chikwendu emphasized his commitment to building and sustaining the party despite internal challenges, pledging to expand its structure and membership base.
In an exclusive interview, Chikwendu revealed that his primary motivation for joining the ADC is to align with progressive minds working towards the emergence of Peter Obi as the party's presidential flag bearer and, ultimately, as President of Nigeria. He stated, "My major concern is to ensure that Nigeria works for the better. Nigeria is not faring any better under the Tinubu administration, yet the president wants to turn this country into a one-party state, and he is not allowing other political parties to breathe."
He further expressed his belief that positive change in governance will emanate from the ADC, adding, "I'm supporting Peter Obi's emergence as President of Nigeria because I'm one of those who believe that the Southeast should be given the opportunity to take a shot at the presidency. 2027 is the brightest opportunity available to the Southeast to produce a president through the former governor of Anambra state, Mr. Peter Obi. He is the best thing that can happen to this country."
Criticism and Broader Political Movements
Chikwendu, who also serves as a director in the Obidient Movement, criticized some Igbo individuals for downplaying Obi's presidential ambition due to selfish interests, labeling such actions as sabotage against the collective interest of the Southeast. His defection is part of a larger trend, as other political figures in Anambra have similarly declared support for Obi within the ADC framework, boosting the party's grassroots momentum.
Party stakeholders have welcomed these developments enthusiastically. Hon. Kenechukwu Nwachukwu, chairman of ADC in Otolo Ward 3, described the influx of seasoned politicians as a viable sign of more good things to come, urging new members to recruit more supporters. Amb. Onyedika Anazodo, the youth leader, noted that the increasing defections indicate "light at the end of the tunnel" and called for efforts to strengthen the party at the ward level.
Additional Defections and Strategic Alliances
In a related move, Rt. Hon. Prince Chukwudi Orizu, former deputy speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly and a major stakeholder of the ruling All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), recently joined the ADC. Orizu praised Chikwendu's decision and explained his own defection, saying, "I joined ADC because I want a positive change in Nigeria. For Nigeria to make any progress from its present sorry state, all citizens must embrace change, and that change promises to come from ADC." He also voiced support for Obi's presidential bid, citing the need for an Igbo president.
Ambassador Alloy Ubah, who defected alongside Chikwendu, expressed optimism about the party's potential, stating that Chikwendu's move provided an opportunity to work with progressive minds for the political emancipation of the Igbo people. These defections come amid broader opposition efforts, as top figures from the ADC and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and leaders like David Mark, have held strategic meetings in Abuja to build a united front against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.
The growing support for Peter Obi within the ADC highlights shifting political dynamics in Nigeria, with stakeholders viewing the 2027 election as a critical juncture for regional representation and national governance reform.
