Why Atiku, Peter Obi Are Yet to Join ADC – Inside Sources Reveal Ongoing Power Talks
ABUJA, NIGERIA – A new report has revealed the reason former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party's 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi have not officially defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) despite their close association with the emerging opposition coalition.
According to sources within the coalition, both political heavyweights are waiting for the party to finalize its 2027 presidential ticket zoning arrangement before making formal moves.
Zoning Decision Holding Everyone Back
The insiders, who spoke to Punch, confirmed that Atiku and Obi remain committed to the ADC coalition but are cautiously observing the internal decision-making regarding whether the next presidential ticket will be zoned to the North or South.
“We expected them or at least many of their members to resign their legacy party memberships and formally join the ADC before the official unveiling. But the uncertainty around zoning is delaying that,” a senior coalition official said.
The zoning formula is seen as a critical component that will determine who among the prominent aspirants eventually flies the ADC flag in 2027.
Obi and Atiku Still in LP, PDP Respectively
While Peter Obi has not formally declared his defection, he has openly expressed support for the ADC’s ideals. Atiku, on the other hand, continues to keep his political base within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), even as his name remains central in coalition strategy meetings.
“As it stands, the main reason Atiku, Obi, and others are still members of their respective parties is because discussions are still ongoing, especially on the presidential ticket,” another source confirmed.
Mass Defection Plan Pending INEC Timetable
Coalition sources disclosed that once the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) releases the 2027 election timetable, the ADC would activate its full political machinery, including mass defections and formal registration of new members.
“The party leadership has hit the ground running. Once INEC releases the timetable, expect a flood of high-profile defections,” one coalition official said confidently.
Tension Within the Coalition Over Delays
Some members expressed concern over the delay in formal defections, arguing that millions of Nigerians waiting to follow Obi or Atiku into the coalition are left hanging.
“They need to act soon. Many Nigerians are watching and ready to follow their lead, but only if they make the move officially,” one source said.
Despite the uncertainty, the coalition insists it is focused and united in its mission to unseat President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next general elections.
What’s Next?
Political observers believe the ADC’s decision on zoning—expected in the coming weeks—will be the tipping point for Nigeria’s 2027 presidential race.
Once the party resolves the ticket issue, many believe a united opposition front featuring Atiku, Obi, and other heavyweights could significantly alter the country’s political landscape.
