The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has clarified that he does not need to formally defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), insisting that he has been part of the party’s coalition from its inception.

Obi made the clarification on Sunday night while speaking during an X Space discussion, amid growing speculation about his political future ahead of the 2027 general election.

According to the former Anambra State governor, reports suggesting that he is planning to join the ADC are misleading, as he has always been a member of the coalition associated with the party.

“I am not joining the ADC. I cannot re-join what I am already a part of,” Obi said.
“I have been part of the coalition from day one.
“Nobody is stepping down for me in the ADC.
“We have all agreed to work together, and Atiku remains my respected leader.”

He also stressed that he holds former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar in high regard, describing him as a leader he continues to respect within the coalition framework.

In the same discussion, Obi confirmed that he will contest the 2027 presidential election, firmly ruling out the possibility of running as a vice-presidential candidate.

The former governor said he did not spend years building experience in governance and business only to settle for the position of vice-president.

“I am not travelling round the world to learn governance to be vice-president,” Obi said.
“I know how to turn Nigeria around. I built my business from scratch and have more experience than any candidate, including the sitting President.
“Peter Obi will be on the ballot in 2027. I need your support. I need your prayers.”

Obi’s comments appear aimed at putting to rest ongoing debates over his political platform and ambitions, as discussions intensify within opposition circles ahead of the next election cycle.