Speculations are rife in Nigeria's political landscape as reports suggest former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, is on the verge of formally exiting the party. This development, emerging on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, is linked to prolonged internal leadership disputes that threaten the party's stability ahead of the crucial 2027 general elections.
Internal Fractures Prompt Exit Plans
According to a report by Vanguard newspaper, arrangements have reached an advanced stage for the former Governor of Anambra State to seek an alternative political platform. The Labour Party has been entangled in a debilitating leadership crisis for months, with multiple factions led by Julius Abure, Nenadi Usman, Callistus Okafor, and Lamidi Apapa each claiming legitimacy.
A confidential source from the Senator Nenadi Usman-led faction indicated that Obi appears to have succumbed to pressures from his key supporters and advisers to leave the LP. The source expressed the dilemma facing party loyalists, stating that while Obi's supporters would follow him to any platform, his departure leaves those who built the LP brand into a 'third force' in the 2023 elections in a precarious position.
Coalition Talks and Political Realignments
The defection talks are described as fluid, with consultations reportedly ongoing across several opposition blocs. While Obi is part of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition adopted by opposition leaders to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027, recent indications suggest the ADC might not have concrete plans for him.
Initial talks with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have also reportedly collapsed, leaving Obi's next move uncertain. This political maneuvering comes after Obi, the 64-year-old leader of the Obidient Movement, announced his desire to re-contest the presidency in 2027, initially on the LP platform.
Reactions and Implications for 2027
The potential defection has sent shockwaves through Obi's support base, the Obidients, and the broader opposition. A party insider lamented the potential fallout, highlighting that Obi's presence was the defining factor in the LP's 2023 performance and could have added significant value in 2027.
In a related development, cleric Primate Elijah Ayodele has predicted a slim chance for Obi winning the 2027 presidential election, forecasting a dearth in the Obidient movement. As the political chessboard takes shape, all eyes remain on Peter Obi's final decision, which could dramatically alter the opposition's strategy for the next national polls.
