Former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has officially defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), announcing his decision on Wednesday at an event held at Nike Lake Resort in Enugu. The event drew key political figures, including ADC National Chairman David Mark, as well as party leaders and stakeholders.

Obi described the move as part of a broader effort to prepare for the 2027 general elections, emphasizing the need to guard against electoral malpractice.

“We are ending this year with the hope that in 2026 we will begin a rescue journey. We will resist rigging of election by every lawful means in 2027,” Obi said.
“We still have a one-year window for everyone to go and verify the schools they attended. We do not want to return to court again only to be told it is a pre-election matter. The pre-election process should start now.”

The defection comes amid speculation that some other Labour Party leaders might follow Obi. However, Abia State Governor Alex Otti dismissed rumours that he would defect alongside him. Speaking during his monthly media briefing in Umuahia, Otti clarified that he would remain in the Labour Party:

“He [Obi] has communicated to me that he is leaving the Labour Party. I gave him my blessings. But I will remain in the Labour Party, and I told him that I would continue the struggle to rescue the Labour Party. That is the party that brought me to power.”

Obi’s move to the ADC signals a new phase in Nigeria’s opposition politics ahead of 2027, as he positions himself to lead a coordinated effort against electoral manipulation while preparing for the next presidential contest.