Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (Nigeria), Peter Obi, has formally defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), marking a major shift in Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Obi officially registered with the ADC on March 7, 2026, in his home state of Anambra State.
The former Anambra governor was the Labour Party’s presidential candidate during the 2023 presidential election.
Speaking shortly after completing his registration, Obi said he was prepared to work with other Nigerians who are committed to changing the country’s leadership.
He said the move was part of efforts to build a stronger political platform capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next election cycle.
“I am ready to join hands with other well-meaning Nigerians to put a stop to the bad leadership of the APC-led government in 2027,” Obi said while addressing supporters.
The former presidential candidate also called on his supporters across Nigeria and in the diaspora to register with the ADC and participate in what he described as a historic political movement.
Political observers say Obi’s defection could reshape opposition politics in Nigeria, particularly in the South-East where he maintains strong support.
During the 2023 election, Obi gained widespread backing among young voters and urban populations, emerging as one of the major contenders against candidates of the APC and the People’s Democratic Party (Nigeria).
More reactions from political parties and stakeholders are expected in the coming days as the development continues to generate debate across Nigeria’s political space.
