Former Anambra State governor Peter Obi has opened up on the internal issues slowing down the planned coalition between the Labour Party and the African Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 elections.
He said unresolved zoning arrangements and rotation of key political offices remain the biggest obstacles to finalising the alliance.
Obi spoke during an interview on the YouTube programme Advocacy for Good Governance on Wednesday. He told the host that the coalition must first settle its foundational agreements before taking any major political steps. According to him, every coalition survives on clarity, honesty and shared expectations.
He stressed that he fully supports the ADC coalition. He added that he remains a committed member of the Labour Party. However, he made it clear that no political union can succeed when its core rules remain vague. He insisted that leaders must agree on basic principles if they truly want a united front in 2027.
Obi said there are still unanswered questions about power rotation. He noted that discussions on the presidency and the sharing of offices remain informal. He described them as “unsigned agreements” with the potential to cause future problems if they remain unaddressed.
“These things must be organised,” he warned. “If you don’t do it, you create confusion for the future.”
Despite the unresolved matters, Obi expressed confidence in the coalition’s leadership. He praised former Senate President David Mark, who chairs the coalition. He also spoke highly of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, calling him “my leader” and a man he respects deeply. He said these leaders share a genuine desire to rebuild Nigeria.
Obi dismissed claims that he is desperate for power. When asked whether he would stay with the coalition if he is not chosen as its 2027 presidential candidate, he responded without hesitation. He said his ambition has never been about holding office but about making Nigeria work.
“I’m not desperate to be president of Nigeria,” he said. “I’m desperate to see Nigeria work.”
His remarks come at a time when talks about a mega opposition coalition continue to dominate national debate.
Many Nigerians see the ADC coalition as a possible counterweight to the ruling party in 2027.
However, Obi’s comments show that several critical issues still require resolution.
The former governor maintained that he remains hopeful. He said that once leaders reach firm agreements, the coalition will move forward with unity and purpose.