Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi is reportedly preparing to leave the Labour Party (LP) for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), while firmly rejecting any possibility of serving as vice president in the 2027 elections.
During an X Spaces discussion on Sunday night, Obi outlined his political ambitions and dismissed suggestions he would accept a secondary role. “I am not travelling round the world to learn governance to be Vice President. I know how to turn Nigeria around,” he stated, pointing to his business background and gubernatorial experience as credentials that surpass those of current leaders, including the sitting President.
The 2023 presidential candidate confirmed his intention to run again, telling supporters: “Peter Obi will be on the ballot in 2027. I need your support. I need your prayers.”
His potential exit from Labour Party follows months of internal turbulence. The party remains divided between factions headed by Julius Abure and Senator Nenadi Usman, with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) yet to recognize either leadership group following a Supreme Court decision.
According to sources familiar with the situation, INEC’s delayed action has intensified the party’s dysfunction, leading Obi to consider other options. He has begun discussions with prominent LP figures, including Abia State Governor Alex Otti and several legislators, about his planned transition.
The ADC is assembling a coalition to oppose the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027. The alliance includes significant political figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Kaduna Governor Nasir el-Rufai, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal, former Attorney General Abubakar Malami, former Rivers Governor Chibuike Amaechi, former Senate President David Mark, and former Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola.
However, the coalition faces disagreements over leadership selection and regional representation. Three distinct groups have emerged: supporters of Atiku, backers of Obi, and those aligned with Amaechi. Some members believe Atiku, who will turn 80 in 2027, should make way for younger leadership, while northern stakeholders argue that power should rotate back to the North, with Obi serving as Atiku’s deputy. Others warn against recreating the 2019 Atiku-Obi partnership, which was defeated by former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Reports suggest Atiku’s team approached Obi with a vice-presidential offer earlier this year, but Obi has not provided a clear response. His supporters contend that a South East presidential candidacy would better represent regional interests and capitalize on his substantial vote count in 2023, despite running on a relatively new political platform.
Obi has indicated that the ADC must resolve its position on zoning before he makes a formal commitment, highlighting the issue’s importance to his decision-making. Meanwhile, Amaechi has rejected a subordinate position, declaring himself “too presidential” to accept a vice-presidential role without specific assurances.
The ADC has announced plans to hold internal congresses and delegate elections between January 20-27, 2026, followed by a Non-Elective National Convention in February 2026 in Abuja, initiating preparations for the 2027 electoral contest.
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