The Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has labelled former Anambra Governor Peter Obi’s recent departure from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as an example of political opportunism ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to a report by DAILY POST, Obi announced his resignation from the ADC on Sunday via his verified X account. In his statement, the former Labour Party presidential candidate accused “the same Nigerian state and its agents” of creating “unnecessary crises and hostility” within the Labour Party, which he said forced his exit. He added that those same forces now appear to be influencing the ADC.
Onanuga responded to Obi’s announcement on X, writing, “We told you so. The political nomad is on the move again. Ignore all those puerile reasons he gave in these illogical musings, a self‑serving letter to his mob.” He characterised Obi as “a politician made of jelly, an opportunistic fellow,” and suggested the former governor could not compete with Atiku Abubakar or Nyesom Wakili Amaechi for the ADC ticket. “He pursues the easy road, that will only lead him to doom, like in 2023. He always blames the government without doing a soul‑searching of himself. Welcome, Peter, to the 2027 race,” Onanuga added.
Obi’s resignation follows a turbulent period for the Labour Party, which, after a strong showing in the 2023 presidential election, has experienced internal disputes and defections. His move to the ADC in early 2024 was seen as an effort to maintain a political platform after losing the Labour Party’s nomination. The ADC, a smaller party, has recently attracted several high‑profile politicians seeking alternative routes to national office.
Political analysts note that Obi’s shift may reflect broader realignments as parties position themselves for the 2027 elections. The Tinubu administration has been closely monitoring defections, viewing them as indicators of voter sentiment and potential challenges to its agenda. Onanuga’s comments suggest the presidency views Obi’s pattern of party changes as indicative of personal ambition rather than ideological commitment.
No official response from the ADC has been released as of press time. Obi’s future political plans remain unclear, but his public statements indicate a continued desire to influence national discourse. The episode underscores the fluid nature of Nigeria’s party politics and the strategic calculations of prominent figures as the country approaches its next electoral cycle.
