Fmr Buhari Aide Lauretta Onochie Reacts as Southeast Abaribe, Victor Umeh, Others Join Peter Obi In ADC

Lauretta Onochie, a former aide to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari and a prominent voice in Nigerian politics, has commended several Southeast political leaders for joining former Anambra State Governor and erstwhile Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The defection of Obi to the ADC, announced at a high-profile event in Enugu on December 31, 2025, has generated widespread attention across Nigeria. 

The move has attracted mixed reactions online, but many observers consider it a strategic shift ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Among the notable political figures who joined Obi are Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe of Abia North, Senator Victor Umeh, and Senator Tony Nwoye. 

Their collective defection is seen as a major realignment of opposition forces in the Southeast, a region that has historically played a critical role in national elections.

Reacting to the development, Lauretta Onochie described the political realignment as significant.

Sharing her thoughts on her official X handle, she wrote that “the sun has finally risen from the east,” praising the courage and decisiveness of the senators who aligned themselves with Obi.

She encouraged others dissatisfied with the current administration to follow their example, calling their actions inspiring and strategic.

Onochie’s comments highlight the importance of unity and calculated moves within opposition politics.

By rallying Southeast heavyweights behind him, Peter Obi and the ADC have strengthened their political profile, signaling a potentially formidable challenge to the ruling party in 2027.

Political analysts note that Obi’s ability to attract key leaders from his home region demonstrates his enduring influence and appeal.

It also suggests that opposition coalitions are beginning to consolidate ahead of the next presidential race.

The move comes just days after Obi formally left the Labour Party, a decision that drew strong reactions from his former party and sparked broader discussions about opposition unity.

Obi has framed his defection as part of a broader effort to build a credible opposition capable of addressing Nigeria’s persistent issues of poverty, insecurity, and poor governance.

With the backing of influential senators and political figures, Obi’s presence in the ADC is expected to galvanize supporters and attract further attention from undecided voters.