Former Anambra State governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, selected Enugu State for his formal defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) because the South-East intends to make a strong political statement ahead of the 2027 general elections, according to the leader of the Obidient Movement, Dr. Yunusa Tanko.
Tanko told Vanguard that Enugu, regarded as the political and historical capital of the South-East, was deliberately chosen to underscore the region’s resolve and political relevance as preparations for the 2027 polls intensify.
“Enugu is the historical capital of the East. It adds historical solidity when the East wants to make a statement,” he said.
He disclosed that leaders and members of the Obidient Movement from across the country had already converged on Enugu, the South-East zonal headquarters, for the defection ceremony. According to him, Obi had been part of the ADC coalition for some time, adding that the event was meant to outline the next phase of political engagement for his supporters nationwide.
“The programme today is for Mr. Obi to chart the way forward for his numerous supporters across the country ahead of the 2027 elections. The Obidient Movement is here in large numbers to show support,” Tanko said.
A national leader of the ADC also confirmed that top officials of the party would be present to receive Obi. “We are excited. The national chairman of the ADC and other party leaders are expected to attend,” the source said.
The event is scheduled to hold at the Nike Lake Hotel, Enugu.
Earlier in the week, Obi had announced his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election, stating that he was fully prepared for the task. His defection to the ADC follows months of speculation over his political future.
Meanwhile, opinions within the Obidient Movement remain divided over Obi’s move. A senior figure in the movement described the decision as difficult but unavoidable, arguing that the ADC remains one of the few political platforms capable of mounting a credible challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
However, another founding member of the movement, Dr. Katch Onanuju, expressed reservations, warning that entrenched interests within the ADC could pose challenges to Obi’s ambition.
Despite the differing views, ADC leaders have maintained that the party remains open to all Nigerians and that its candidate selection process will be transparent.
