In a significant political shift in Ebonyi State, High Chief Chukwuma Odii, the flagbearer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 governorship election, has officially resigned his membership from the party.
Formal Resignation and New Political Direction
The resignation was formalized in a letter dated Thursday, January 1, 2026, and addressed to the Chairman of Amanator Ward in Isuachara, Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. The Guardian newspaper obtained a copy of the correspondence in Abakaliki.
In the letter, Odii stated that his decision to leave the PDP was made after wide consultations with his family and close associates. He expressed gratitude to the party's leadership and members for providing him with the platform to contest the 2023 gubernatorial election.
"I write to officially inform you that, following wide consultation with my family, and close associates, I have taken a considered decision to resign my membership of the PDP with immediate effect," the letter read in part.
Potential Defection to the African Democratic Congress
While Chief Odii's letter did not specify his next political destination, a confidential source close to the politician revealed to The Guardian that he is likely to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to further his political ambitions.
This move signals a major realignment in Ebonyi State's political landscape, coming from a high-profile figure who was the PDP's standard bearer just three years prior.
Obi's Cautious 2027 Presidential Declaration
In a related political development, former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, has confirmed his intention to run in the 2027 presidential election.
Obi made the announcement during an extended interaction on X (formerly Twitter) Spaces, but struck an unusually cautious tone. He emphasized that political ambition must be subordinate to humility, service, and Nigeria's collective survival.
"Yes, I will be on the ballot in 2027," Obi stated, adding, "But I am not God. Tomorrow is not guaranteed." He portrayed his aspiration not as a quest for power but as an extension of his belief that Nigeria can succeed with competent and compassionate leadership.
The former governor was emphatic about his motivations, stating, "I am not desperate to be president. I am desperate to see Nigeria work." He warned against political hostility, arrogance, and name-calling, which he said only deepen national divisions.
Implications for Nigeria's Political Terrain
These developments highlight the ongoing fluidity within Nigeria's opposition politics. Odii's departure from the PDP weakens the party's structure in Ebonyi and could bolster the ADC's presence in the Southeast.
Concurrently, Peter Obi's confirmed candidacy sets the stage for what promises to be a highly contested 2027 presidential race, with his message focusing on governance over mere political conquest.
Political analysts will be watching closely to see how these moves influence party alliances and voter sentiments in the coming months, particularly in the Southeast and South-South regions.
