2027 Showdown: The Uncertain Future of Former Anambra Governor Peter Obi in ADC and LP

The 2027 presidential aspirations of former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi are currently enveloped in uncertainty, as debates persist over the political platform he will ultimately represent.
Obi, who vied for the presidency in 2023 under the Labour Party banner, remains a pivotal figure among opposition leaders aiming to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming election.
On July 2, 2025, a coalition of opposition stalwarts-including Obi, ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President David Mark, and ex-governors Nasir El-Rufai and Rotimi Amaechi-announced their intention to contest the 2027 elections under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) umbrella.
Despite this alliance, Obi’s prospects of clinching the ADC presidential nomination appear increasingly slim, as party insiders seem to favor Atiku Abubakar.
An insider disclosed that the ADC will not endorse a consensus candidate; instead, it plans to hold a primary election to select its flagbearer, mirroring the approach of other political parties.
However, sources close to Obi indicate that he is reluctant to face Atiku in a primary contest.
Obidient Movement Rejects Participation in Monetized ADC Primaries
The Obidient Movement, a devoted support base for Obi, has firmly declared that their leader will abstain from any primary election within the ADC that involves financial inducements to delegates.
Dr. Yunusa Tanko, the movement’s National Coordinator, emphasized that Obi’s political philosophy is incompatible with the “heavily monetized” nature of such primaries.
Tanko stated, “Peter Obi will not engage in paying delegates during any delegate-based election.
“Given the vast resources controlled by some candidates who have amassed wealth through questionable means, Obi would be at a disadvantage.
“Our campaign strategy is fundamentally different. Obi refuses to partake in any primary election driven by monetary influence.
“Since the presidency is zoned to the South, there should be no discussion about a Northern candidate, which enhances the chances of victory.”
Tanko’s comments came shortly after Atiku Abubakar declared he would not withdraw his candidacy under the ADC.
When questioned about the possibility of Obi defecting to another party to secure a presidential ticket, Tanko responded, “We will address that if and when it becomes necessary.”
ADC Remains Noncommittal on Primary Election Speculations
Bolaji Abdullahi, the National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, declined to confirm rumors that the party has resolved to hold a primary election, a move that contrasts with expectations from some members, especially those aligned with Obi.
Abdullahi explained that the ADC’s current priority is not selecting a presidential candidate but rather focusing on expanding the party’s base.
“At this stage, no discussions are underway regarding whether to choose a consensus candidate or conduct primaries. When the time comes, we will decide accordingly.
“Our immediate concern is strengthening the party as a relatively new political entity, which takes precedence over presidential candidate deliberations,” he said.
Regarding Obi’s membership status within the ADC, Abdullahi noted, “Obi and El-Rufai have yet to become card-carrying members because they intend to support candidates from their original parties in upcoming elections.
“In Obi’s case, full membership is expected after the forthcoming Anambra election. Beyond that, I am unaware of any other reasons.”
Meanwhile, political commentators suggest that Obi’s chances of contesting under the Labour Party remain slim due to ongoing internal conflicts.
Analyst Predicts Obstacles for Obi Within Labour Party
Political analyst Dr. Anabi Samuel highlighted that the persistent leadership tussle within the Labour Party, particularly involving factional chairman Julius Abure, poses significant challenges to Obi’s presidential bid.
“Obi has made numerous adversaries within the Labour Party, and securing the party’s ticket in 2027 may prove difficult.
“Figures like Julius Abure and his faction are likely to obstruct Obi’s path, starting from the primaries, where no candidate is guaranteed an automatic ticket.
“Even if Obi were to obtain the Labour Party nomination, internal opposition could undermine his campaign.
“Should Obi fail to secure the ADC ticket, it might be prudent for him to pause his ambitions unless the PDP offers him their nomination.
“Rumors about Obi joining a new political party should be dismissed; the 2027 election demands a well-established party with robust structures to ensure success,” Dr. Samuel advised.
Labour Party Denies Automatic Ticket for Obi
Despite Obi’s role in elevating the Labour Party’s profile, the party insists that he will not receive an automatic nomination for the 2027 presidential race.
Obiora Ifoh, the factional National Publicity Secretary of the Labour Party, told DAILY POST that granting an automatic ticket would undermine democratic principles.
“Our primary elections will be conducted democratically. All available positions will be announced, and interested candidates must apply and participate in the standard primary process.
“It would be undemocratic to award any aspirant an automatic ticket,” Ifoh affirmed.