Peter Obi
By Ab Susan
Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential hopeful, has warned that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition is on shaky ground because of an unresolved zoning arrangement that could jeopardise its unity ahead of the 2027 elections. Speaking at a recent press briefing, Obi highlighted that the coalition’s leadership has yet to agree on how key positions, especially the presidential slot, will be rotated among its member parties.
The ADC, which brought together a patchwork of regional and ethnic-based parties, has long struggled to iron out a clear power‑sharing formula. Obi pointed out that without a firm agreement, factions within the coalition could start pulling in different directions, leaving the alliance vulnerable to splinter groups and political opportunists.
Obi stressed that the issue isn’t just about who gets the top job, but also about the distribution of ministerial portfolios, governorships, and other strategic appointments. He argued that a transparent, pre‑elected roadmap is essential to keep the coalition’s members committed and to prevent back‑room deals that could erode public trust.
In his remarks, Obi referenced the 2023 elections, noting that the ADC’s lack of cohesion contributed to its poor showing. He warned that repeating the same mistakes would hand the political arena back to the dominant parties, undermining the coalition’s original goal of offering a credible alternative to Nigeria’s entrenched political elite.
The former Anambra governor called on the ADC’s leadership—particularly retired Senate President David Mark and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar—to convene an urgent summit. He urged them to settle the zoning dispute once and for all, so the coalition can focus on policy platforms and grassroots mobilisation rather than internal squabbles.
Obi concluded by reiterating his personal commitment to a united opposition, saying he is “not desperate to be president, but desperate to see Nigeria work.” He urged all stakeholders to put the nation’s interests above personal ambition, warning that a fractured ADC would only strengthen the status quo.
