In a statement shared on Wednesday, Atiku said Obi’s entry into the ADC represents a renewed effort by opposition leaders to build a strong and united front capable of challenging the ruling party and offering Nigerians an alternative government.
According to Atiku, the move is not just about party politics but about forming a broad coalition that can rescue the country from its current economic and social challenges.
“Today marks an important moment in the history of political coalitions in our country,” Atiku said.
“The official declaration of my brother and associate, Peter Obi, into the African Democratic Congress is a clear signal that a new opposition movement is taking shape.”
He noted that the ADC coalition is gradually gaining momentum across different parts of the country, particularly as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify.
The former vice president expressed optimism that Obi’s decision would inspire other political actors, reform-minded leaders, and citizens to join the coalition in their respective regions.
“As the ADC coalition train departs from Enugu, the heart of the South-East, I hope this development encourages other patriots across the country to join the movement as it reaches their regions,” Atiku said.
Peter Obi, a former governor of Anambra State and the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has remained one of the most influential opposition figures in Nigeria.
His move to the ADC comes amid internal crises within the Labour Party, including leadership disputes and the defection of several elected officials.
Political analysts say Obi’s defection reflects growing frustration among opposition politicians over weak party structures and the need for a broader alliance to effectively challenge the ruling party in 2027.
The ADC has recently emerged as a platform for opposition unity, with talks ongoing among key political figures about forming a coalition government should they win the next presidential election.
Atiku’s statement also comes amid claims from the Presidency that Peter Obi could once again end up as Atiku’s running mate in 2027, similar to the 2019 election when both men ran on the same ticket under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
While neither Atiku nor Obi has officially confirmed any ticket arrangement, the growing cooperation between both leaders has fueled speculation about a possible joint presidential bid.
Supporters of the coalition argue that unity among opposition leaders is necessary to defeat the ruling party, which they accuse of mismanaging the economy and deepening hardship across the country.
Nigeria is currently facing rising inflation, unemployment, and widespread poverty, issues that opposition leaders say require a new leadership direction.
Atiku reiterated that the ADC coalition’s main goal is to build a government that prioritizes economic stability, national unity, and peace.
“Our objective is to form a government that will bring prosperity, restore hope, and ensure peace for all Nigerians,” he said.
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