Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has warned that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) could slide into political irrelevance ahead of the 2027 general elections if it fails to present Peter Obi as its presidential candidate.

Fayose made the remarks on Monday during an interview on Arise Television, where he analysed opposition politics, the internal crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the rising profile of emerging political platforms.

According to Fayose, Obi’s recent defection to the ADC is the only factor giving the party visibility and momentum, stressing that without him, the party lacks real political weight.

“Are we saying ADC is not dominant? Recently, Obi moved there. And I’ve said it—Obi is the only life in ADC,” Fayose said.

He dismissed the relevance of other political heavyweights associated with the party, including Atiku Abubakar, describing them as politically exhausted.

“I’m not saying they are not human beings, I’m saying they are largely spent forces,” he stated.

Fayose argued that the ADC’s political fortunes are directly tied to Obi, warning that the party’s relevance would disappear if he leaves or is denied the presidential ticket.

“Let Obi not go to ADC. Let Obi go to another party—say Accord. Obi is the only traction, the only meaning, the only factor in ADC,” he said.

He further cautioned that failing to field Obi would leave the ADC worse off than before its recent coalition arrangements.

“And if Obi had not gone to ADC, I’m not saying Obi will win this election. I’m not saying he won’t. But I’m telling you, if ADC fails to field Obi, their case will be worse than their coming together,” Fayose warned.

Recalling Obi’s impact in the 2023 general elections, Fayose noted that the Labour Party, previously regarded as obscure, gained national relevance and secured seats in the House of Representatives largely due to Obi’s candidacy.

“When Obi went to the Labour Party, which no one knew about, the party won election to the House of Representatives,” he added.

While acknowledging uncertainty over Obi’s chances in 2027, Fayose maintained that his importance to the ADC cannot be overstated.

“I’m not saying Obi will win this election, and I’m not saying Obi cannot win. But I’m telling you that if ADC fails to field Obi, their case will be worse than their coming together,” he said.