Peter Obi Eyes ADC Presidential Ticket for 2027, Rejects Any VP Role

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has openly declared his intention to contest for the presidency under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the 2027 general elections, insisting he will only run as the party’s number one candidate.

Obi made the strong statement on Monday while addressing supporters at a campaign rally for ADC candidates ahead of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The event, held at the AMAC Secretariat, drew massive crowds of Obidients and party faithful who chanted his name throughout.

Linking the local council poll directly to his national ambition, Obi told the gathering: “This coming election, support us in AMAC; it will help me. Your support in AMAC is critical to our journey. I am involved and contesting the coming election as number one. When I come back, you will see. I assure you.”

The declaration has further intensified pressure on ADC leadership, with Obidient Movement members renewing calls for the party to automatically adopt Obi as its sole presidential flagbearer. As earlier reported by NaijaChoice News, Obi formally defected to the ADC in December 2025, sparking massive speculation about his role in the emerging opposition coalition.

However, the party is home to other heavyweights with presidential ambitions, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, and possibly Rabiu Kwankwaso, who has reportedly said he would only join ADC if Obi gets the ticket. Recent reports indicate growing cracks within the party, with some chieftains warning against “Obi or nothing” politics that could weaken the coalition’s chances against the ruling APC.

ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi recently cautioned supporters of all aspirants to avoid divisive statements, stressing that only unity can produce a formidable ticket capable of defeating President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

Political analysts say Obi’s grassroots mobilisation in AMAC – a key FCT council – is a strategic move to build early momentum and prove his organisational strength ahead of party primaries.

With the 2027 race heating up, all eyes are now on ADC’s national convention, where the battle for the presidential ticket among Obi, Atiku, Amaechi and others could define the future of Nigeria’s opposition politics.