The African Democratic Congress is experiencing internal strain following the entry of Peter Obi into the party and the strong push by his supporters, known as the Obidients, for him to secure the presidential ticket. Obi, who was the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, joined the ADC as part of a broader opposition coalition. Since then, many of his followers who moved with him into the party have insisted that he must run as the presidential candidate or risk losing their support.
Reports indicate that this demand has unsettled some ADC leaders, particularly from the northern part of the country, who are uncomfortable with what they see as pressure tactics from Obi’s camp. As a result, some party figures are said to be distancing themselves, worried that the situation could weaken the party’s unity before the next general election.
Before joining the ADC, Obi had publicly stated that he would serve only one term if elected president. He also held discussions with other opposition leaders, including former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, over possible cooperation within the coalition. However, the insistence by Obi’s supporters that he should not accept a vice-presidential role has added to the tension, with prominent loyalists openly stating they would oppose any ticket where Obi is not the main candidate.
The situation has also affected relations between supporters of Obi and those backing former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, another key figure in the opposition coalition. Exchanges between the two camps on social media have raised concerns among ADC leaders, who fear that ongoing disputes could harm the party’s chances in 2027.
Some party officials have acknowledged the growing unease, noting that while the ADC is not yet divided, there is concern about the direction things are going. Party leaders have reportedly urged caution and restraint, stressing the need to build the party first before focusing on individual ambitions.
Former ADC leaders and current officials have said that only a small number of Obi’s supporters are responsible for the tension, insisting that Obi himself supports party unity. They have also argued that many statements made in the name of the Obidient Movement do not reflect the position of the party or its leadership.
The ADC leadership has warned that insisting on a single aspirant could weaken the party and reduce its chances of winning the election. Party officials have urged supporters of all aspirants to allow the primary process to run its course and to avoid actions that could push members away.
At the state level, some ADC chairmen have also expressed concern, saying the “one candidate or nothing” approach is slowing the party’s growth. They argue that politics requires negotiation and compromise, and that no aspirant should be imposed on others.
Despite the concerns, leaders of the Obidient Movement have denied trying to force their will on the party. They say their focus is on promoting their preferred candidate through lawful and democratic means, while also working to strengthen the ADC ahead of the general election.
As the 2027 election approaches, ADC leaders continue to call for calm and cooperation, insisting that unity within the party remains key to presenting a strong alternative to the ruling party.
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