The announcement was made during a high-profile event at Nike Lake Resort in Enugu on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. Obi’s decision marks a major realignment in opposition politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Peter Obi, who finished third in the 2023 presidential election, gained national prominence by galvanising millions of young voters through the “Obidient” movement.
Peter Obi, who finished third in the 2023 presidential election, gained national prominence by galvanising millions of young voters through the “Obidient” movement.
Obi explained that his move to the ADC was motivated by the need to create a stronger and more united opposition coalition capable of “rescuing Nigeria from poverty, division, and poor leadership.”
During the Enugu event, Obi was surrounded by key South-East political figures, including senators, former governors, and influential party leaders.
He urged his supporters and other opposition stakeholders to join the ADC, describing it as a platform that could effectively challenge the ruling party in 2027.
Obi also vowed to resist any attempt to manipulate the electoral process, promising to use only lawful and constitutional means to defend the integrity of future elections.
“Today, we end 2025 with hope, looking forward to 2026 as the start of a real journey to save our nation. We cannot allow corruption, poverty, and poor leadership to continue. Together, we will build a stronger opposition and ensure our democracy is protected,” Obi said during his speech.
The announcement triggered swift reactions from the Labour Party. Hours after Obi’s defection, the Julius Abure-led faction of the party released a statement expressing relief over the development.
National Publicity Secretary Obiora Ifoh described Obi’s exit as a “liberation” and “a blessing” for the party, claiming that longstanding internal disputes involving Obi and Abia State Governor Alex Otti had been resolved.
In a move that surprised many political observers, the Labour Party faction directly apologised to Nigerians for nominating Peter Obi as its presidential candidate in 2023.
The statement read, “We gave Nigerians a candidate we thought was good for the nation, but time has shown that this was a grave political mistake. We plead for forgiveness from Nigerians.”
The faction criticised Obi’s defection speech as uninspiring and signalled a renewed commitment to rebuilding the party with a focus on internal cohesion and a clearer vision for the country.
Political analysts note that Obi’s defection could reshape the opposition landscape in Nigeria, particularly in the South-East region, where he commands significant support.
Meanwhile, Labour Party leaders have indicated that they will focus on restructuring the party and presenting fresh candidates capable of challenging both the ruling party and other opposition coalitions.
Party officials believe that the exit of Obi, while unexpected, offers an opportunity to address internal fractures and strengthen grassroots engagement.
Obi also vowed to resist any attempt to manipulate the electoral process, promising to use only lawful and constitutional means to defend the integrity of future elections.
“Today, we end 2025 with hope, looking forward to 2026 as the start of a real journey to save our nation. We cannot allow corruption, poverty, and poor leadership to continue. Together, we will build a stronger opposition and ensure our democracy is protected,” Obi said during his speech.
The announcement triggered swift reactions from the Labour Party. Hours after Obi’s defection, the Julius Abure-led faction of the party released a statement expressing relief over the development.
National Publicity Secretary Obiora Ifoh described Obi’s exit as a “liberation” and “a blessing” for the party, claiming that longstanding internal disputes involving Obi and Abia State Governor Alex Otti had been resolved.
In a move that surprised many political observers, the Labour Party faction directly apologised to Nigerians for nominating Peter Obi as its presidential candidate in 2023.
The statement read, “We gave Nigerians a candidate we thought was good for the nation, but time has shown that this was a grave political mistake. We plead for forgiveness from Nigerians.”
The faction criticised Obi’s defection speech as uninspiring and signalled a renewed commitment to rebuilding the party with a focus on internal cohesion and a clearer vision for the country.
Political analysts note that Obi’s defection could reshape the opposition landscape in Nigeria, particularly in the South-East region, where he commands significant support.
Meanwhile, Labour Party leaders have indicated that they will focus on restructuring the party and presenting fresh candidates capable of challenging both the ruling party and other opposition coalitions.
Party officials believe that the exit of Obi, while unexpected, offers an opportunity to address internal fractures and strengthen grassroots engagement.
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