An ADC coalition bigger than Obi, says party president

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) says the coalition remains strong despite the resignation of Peter Obi, the Labor Party’s (LP) 2023 presidential candidate.

The Lagos State ADC Chairman, George Ashiru, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Sunday, reacting to Obi’s resignation from the coalition.

NAN recalls that many Nigerian opposition figures, including Obi, had adopted the ADC as a political platform to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.

Reacting, Ashiru described Obi’s decision as consistent with his political history, noting that the aspirant often reevaluated his positions when the party consensus did not favor him.

“I think this is typical of Peter Obi’s political approach. Once consensus is not reached in a way that favors him, he can keep his options open.

“From his explanation, multiple issues emerged. He believes he must make a decision that is in his best interest and service to Nigeria.

“This reflects the challenges experienced in the Labor Party, including internal disputes, court cases and related concerns,” he said.

The president, however, said the timing of Obi’s resignation raised questions, as it came shortly after a Supreme Court ruling affirming the party’s leadership.

“What we don’t understand is why he made that statement after the Supreme Court victory. Before then, one might assume uncertainty about the outcome.

“But the Court has confirmed the leadership put in place by members of the coalition, including him. It is expected that they will maintain that structure until the end.

“However, elections are an emotional event and supporters may change their position if they perceive instability or internal crises,” he added.

He stressed that the ADC-led coalition has grown beyond a single party, incorporating diverse political interests and stakeholders.

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“What started as ADC has expanded to include elements of the CCP, former members of the APC and other political blocs.

“It also includes supporters associated with Nasir El-Rufai, as well as members of SDP, Accord and others.

“About two weeks ago in Ibadan, opposition parties held a summit and agreed to work together towards a common goal,” he said.

The President noted that despite Obi’s exit, his supporters may still align themselves with ADC candidates, particularly in local elections.

“Mr Obi has a strong support base but that does not mean his followers will not vote for ADC candidates.

“In Lagos, if our candidate is popular, supporters of other movements might still vote for such a candidate.

“This is because their main focus remains the presidential election, which is national in scope,” he said.

He added that local elections are often influenced by candidates’ appeal, unlike presidential elections, which tend to reflect regional sentiments.

“Ultimately, we will wait and see how events unfold,” he added.

(NAN)

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