In a stark warning to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has declared that the party's future relevance is directly tied to making Peter Obi its flagbearer for the 2027 presidential election.
A Dire Prediction for the ADC
Fayose, speaking during a political discussion on Arise TV on January 13, 2026, asserted that the ADC's current political momentum is almost entirely dependent on the presence and popularity of Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate. He stated that without Obi leading its ticket, the party's situation would deteriorate, becoming "worse than before they even came together."
The former governor emphasized that Obi represents the central force and primary source of attraction within the ADC's current framework. "Peter Obi is the life in ADC," Fayose remarked. "I didn't say there are no other human beings in ADC, but others are largely spent forces."
Obi's Trans-Party Influence
Fayose elaborated on Obi's unique political capital, noting that his influence transcends traditional party structures. He argued that wherever Obi aligns, he brings a significant boost to electoral prospects. As evidence, Fayose cited the Labour Party's unexpected and remarkable performance in the 2023 general elections, which was largely attributed to Obi's candidacy.
"I'm not saying Obi will win or will not win the election. But I can tell you this: if ADC fails to field Obi, their situation will be worse," Fayose reiterated, highlighting the high stakes for the party.
The Internal ADC Dynamics and 2027 Projections
This warning comes amidst internal discussions within the ADC about its 2027 strategy. Recall that an ADC chieftain, Sylvester Edet Okon, had previously claimed that Peter Obi would clinch the party's presidential ticket. Okon had even urged former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to step aside for Obi, citing the principle of rotational presidency and the strength of the 'Obidient' movement.
However, the potential defection of a figure like Obi to the ADC is also projected to create political drama. Analysts predict a clash between supporters of Obi and those loyal to Atiku Abubakar, should both vie for influence within the same party. Furthermore, some political observers, like analyst Atoyebi Paul, suggest that even with a candidate of Obi or Atiku's caliber, the ADC may still face an uphill battle against an incumbent President Bola Tinubu seeking a second term.
Fayose's comments thus throw a spotlight on the existential crossroads facing the ADC as it maneuvers ahead of the 2027 polls, with its fate seemingly intertwined with the decision of one prominent political figure.
