The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The former governor of Anambra State announced his decision on Wednesday, at a high-profile gathering in Enugu, the historical capital of the South-East.
The move marks the culmination of months of coalition talks aimed at building a formidable opposition front to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
READ ALSO: Peter Obi declares 2027 presidential bid, rules out vice-presidential slot
Addressing a massive crowd of supporters and political heavyweights, Obi stated that his exit from the Labour Party was motivated by a desire to “transform and rescue” Nigeria.
He declared that while 2025 is ending, the new year would mark the start of a strategic movement to reposition the country.
“We are ending this year with the hope that in 2026 we will begin a rescue journey,” Obi declared. “We will resist rigging of election by every lawful means in 2027.”
The former governor emphasised the need for unity among opposition figures, urging them to collapse their various interests into a single “family” to provide a credible alternative for Nigerians.
Obi’s defection comes as the ADC undergoes a significant leadership overhaul.
The party is now led by former Senate President Senator David Mark, who serves as the National Chairman following his own resignation from the PDP earlier in 2025.
The coalition-backed structure is reportedly part of a wider “mega-party” strategy that has also seen other heavyweights, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, expressing support for the ADC platform.
The event, held at the Nike Lake Hotel in Enugu, attracted a wide range of prominent figures from across the political spectrum.
Among those in attendance were Mark, National Chairman of the ADC; Aminu Tambuwal, former Governor of Sokoto State; and Emeka Ihedioha, former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives.
The gathering also included Senators Enyinnaya Abaribe and Victor Umeh, as well as Tony Nwoye, Gilbert Nnaji, and Sam Egwu. Onyema Ugochukwu and several other former South-East governors were also present.
READ ALSO: Peter Obi dumps labour party, set to join ADC on Wednesday
Obi’s departure leaves the Labour Party facing a major identity crisis. While Abia State Governor Alex Otti has stated he will remain in the party to “rebuild” it, a significant portion of the “Obidient Movement” is expected to follow Obi to the ADC.
Obi called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and committed to the democratic process as the country prepares for a transitional 2026.
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