Obi’s ADC Declaration Boosts Opposition in South East

The political landscape of the South East has been significantly reshaped following the formal declaration of former Anambra State governor and Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Dr Peter Obi, as a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The event, which took place in Enugu on December 31, 2025, has ignited fresh political conversations across the region and strengthened opposition forces.

Obi, who contested the 2023 presidential election on the platform of the Labour Party, formally moved to the ADC alongside his supporters, including members of the Obidient Movement. The development has generated widespread excitement within the party, with ADC leaders describing it as a major boost that has repositioned the party as a formidable opposition force in the South East and beyond.

The ADC South East Zonal Chairman, Sir Bon Unachukwu, who witnessed the declaration, described the occasion as “electrifying.” He said Obi’s decision to join the party was both timely and strategic, noting that it would significantly strengthen the ADC’s structure and appeal. According to him, Obi’s entry marks a turning point that would make the party “bigger, stronger and better positioned for future electoral contests.”

Similarly, the South East Zonal Woman Leader of the party, Bar Joy Chioma Anyanwu, said Obi’s declaration had cleared the path for the ADC’s success in the 2027 general elections. She described Obi as a “big factor and a major political catch,” citing his impressive and intimidating performance in the 2023 presidential election. She expressed confidence that with Obi’s leadership in the region, the party’s 2027 ambitions would be realised.

There are also growing calculations within political circles that Obi’s entry into the ADC could enhance the party’s chances of winning elections at the local, state and national levels in 2027. Chief Ben Obi, a member of the steering committee that facilitated the coalition leading to Obi’s defection, said the ADC represents positive change and a clear alternative to Nigeria’s current socio-economic, political and security challenges. He added that Obi’s alignment with the ADC signals the consolidation of genuine opposition forces ahead of 2027.

Since Obi’s declaration, the ADC has reportedly witnessed a surge in membership nationwide, with registration figures reaching an all-time high. Party secretariats across the country have become hives of activity as new members continue to troop in, reflecting renewed public interest in the party.

Observers note that Obi’s advocacy for a shift from consumption to production, his stance against insecurity and corruption, and his promises of job creation and stable power supply resonate strongly with the masses, particularly youths and university students. His move to the ADC was also accompanied by several prominent political figures, including Senators Enyinnaya Abaribe and Victor Umeh, former Ebonyi State governor Dr Sam Egwu, former Imo State governor Chief Achike Udenwa, as well as serving and former members of the National and State Assemblies – further underscoring the growing momentum within the party.