A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dr Ladan Salihu, has described the defection of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to the ADC as a major political turning point ahead of the 2027 general election.
Speaking in a monitored interview on Arise News, Salihu said Obi’s move, coming shortly after Atiku Abubakar’s declaration for the party, has significantly strengthened the ADC’s position as a serious opposition force. According to him, the combined votes of Obi and Atiku from the 2023 presidential election place the ADC in a strong position to challenge for power in 2027.
Salihu dismissed claims that Obi must automatically emerge as the party’s presidential candidate, stressing that the ADC is focused on building structures, expanding its grassroots reach, and articulating clear policies before discussing primaries. He cautioned against setting preconditions for candidacy, describing such demands as anti-democratic and unhealthy for party growth.
Reacting to comments by Professor Pat Utomi and claims by Nasiru Gombe about a faction within the ADC, Salihu insisted the party remains united. He described the factional claims as deliberate attempts to sow confusion, arguing that similar tactics have weakened other opposition parties in the past but would not succeed with the ADC.
On concerns that money politics could undermine credible candidates, Salihu maintained that the party would operate within its constitution and democratic principles. He added that Obi himself has publicly stated that the best candidate should emerge, pledging mutual support between major contenders.
Addressing the debate over zoning the 2027 presidency to the South, Salihu rejected the idea of a rigid rotational formula. He cited historical precedents, arguing that competence and democratic choice should take priority over regional sentiments.
He expressed confidence that the ADC has the leadership depth, unity, and vision to withstand political pressure and present a formidable alternative in 2027, insisting that the party is determined to offer Nigerians a credible path toward better governance.
