The political future of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, remains a subject of intense speculation as rumours of his defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) continue to swirl. However, his camp has moved to clarify that no formal decision has been made regarding such a move.
Obi's Camp Dismisses Defection Reports
On Monday, December 1, 2025, Obi's spokesman, Tanko Yunusa, addressed the growing rumours. He stated clearly that the former Governor of Anambra State would personally announce any decision to switch political parties. "When he decides to move, he will say it by himself," Yunusa told journalists, keeping further details under wraps.
This statement directly counters widespread reports that Obi had already finalised plans to join the ADC. The clarification comes at a time when debate over his political direction is reaching a fever pitch ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The ADC's Broad Coalition and the Waiting Game
The ADC has been actively forming a formidable coalition aimed at unseating President Bola Tinubu in 2027. This alliance already features several political heavyweights, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi. Both Atiku and El-Rufai formally registered with the ADC last week, solidifying the coalition's structure.
Party officials have indicated that a space was being held for Peter Obi to join the alliance. Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC's National Publicity Secretary, reaffirmed this position, noting that Obi and others were given a grace period to "finalise their activities with their former parties." This was understood to include engagements related to the recent Anambra State governorship election.
Abdullahi maintained an optimistic outlook, stating, "Obi is part of the coalition and will likely join the ADC after concluding pending electoral processes." However, the silence from Obi's camp beyond the initial dismissal has left political observers questioning his ultimate commitment.
Labour Party Insists Obi Remains a Member
Amidst the defection talks, figures from the Labour Party are pushing back strongly. Obi's former running mate, Dr. Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, asserted last week that Obi is still very much a member of the party. Speaking during a Labour Party National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, Baba-Ahmed declared, "His Excellency Peter Obi remains a member of our party, despite the challenges we are facing internally."
Sources within the Labour Party have also described Obi's anticipated move to the ADC as "hazy," adding another layer of uncertainty to the entire situation. This internal insistence from the LP complicates the narrative and highlights the ongoing tug-of-war for the influential politician's allegiance.
Political Implications and Analyst Perspectives
The uncertainty surrounding Peter Obi's next move has significant implications for the opposition landscape in Nigeria. Political analysts agree that his final decision, whether to stay with the Labour Party or join the ADC coalition, will dramatically shape the strength and dynamics of the opposition heading into the 2027 election cycle.
While ADC officials project confidence, Obi's deliberate silence and his spokesperson's non-committal statements have sparked a genuine debate. The key question remains whether Obi sees a future in revitalising the Labour Party or believes a broader coalition like the ADC offers a more viable path to challenging the ruling party.
For now, the nation's political watchers are left in a holding pattern, awaiting a definitive announcement from Peter Obi himself. His choice will undoubtedly be one of the most consequential political developments in the lead-up to 2027.
