Political Strategist Outlines Path for Peter Obi's ADC Presidential Ambition
In a detailed analysis of Nigeria's evolving political landscape, former presidential adviser Hakeem Baba-Ahmed has provided crucial guidance to Peter Obi regarding his pursuit of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential ticket for the 2027 elections. Speaking during an interview on Arise Television's The Morning Show on Thursday, January 22, 2026, Baba-Ahmed emphasized the need for strategic adjustments in Obi's political approach.
Assessing Obi's Current Political Standing
Baba-Ahmed acknowledged Peter Obi's significant political influence, describing him as "the most travelled politician I've seen in recent times" and praising his efforts to maintain grassroots connections. The former Labour Party presidential candidate remains a formidable figure in Nigerian politics, having demonstrated substantial electoral appeal during the 2023 elections.
However, Baba-Ahmed cautioned that Obi's current methodology may prove insufficient within the competitive coalition environment of the ADC. "What he needs to do now is to sit down with his people and come to terms with the fact that he's now running against hardline politicians who also have eyes on the same thing he has his eyes on," Baba-Ahmed explained during the television interview.
Learning from Political Veterans
The political analyst specifically urged Obi to study former Vice President Atiku Abubakar's approach to managing political tensions and supporter relations. Baba-Ahmed highlighted Atiku's measured response to internal party conflicts as exemplary, particularly his efforts to prevent public confrontations among supporters.
"What Vice President Atiku did to his people in terms of saying calm down, we don't want to be trading insults with each other was the right thing," Baba-Ahmed stated, adding that "Peter Obi should do twice as much" in this regard. This advice comes amid growing concerns about potential conflicts within the ADC coalition that could inadvertently benefit the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Coalition Dynamics and Electoral Implications
Baba-Ahmed's analysis emerges against the backdrop of complex coalition politics within the ADC, where multiple seasoned politicians are vying for influence. The strategist compared Obi's situation with Atiku Abubakar's position in the coalition-backed primary process, noting that indirect primaries could potentially favor more established political operators.
Despite these challenges, analysts recognize that Obi has successfully energized opposition elements through his political movement, attracting several lawmakers during his recent political transition. This mobilization capacity represents a significant asset that could be leveraged more effectively with refined strategic approaches.
Potential Scenarios and Political Calculations
Political observers have noted that Peter Obi might consider alternative political options if he fails to secure the ADC presidential nomination. Public affairs analyst Jide Ojo has previously suggested that Obi could potentially leave the ADC under such circumstances, reflecting the fluid nature of Nigeria's opposition politics.
The ongoing tensions between different factions within the ADC coalition have prompted warnings from senior political figures, including Atiku Abubakar himself, who has cautioned party members against attacking leadership figures amid growing divisions with Obidient supporters.
As the 2027 elections approach, political strategists emphasize that successful coalition management will be crucial for opposition candidates seeking to challenge the ruling party effectively. Baba-Ahmed's recommendations highlight the delicate balance between maintaining grassroots appeal and navigating complex political alliances in Nigeria's competitive democratic environment.
