Kachikwu Alleges Peter Obi Already Planning Exit from ADC Coalition Over 2027 Ticket Concerns
A fresh round of political tension has erupted within Nigeria’s opposition coalition as Dumebi Kachikwu, the African Democratic Congress (ADC)’s 2023 presidential candidate, claimed that former Labour Party flagbearer Peter Obi is already planning to exit the ADC-led alliance.
According to Kachikwu, Obi may be setting the stage for another political switch, citing concerns over internal competition for the coalition’s 2027 presidential ticket.
Speaking in a recent interview, Kachikwu accused Obi of being unwilling to face a transparent and competitive selection process.
He alleged that just as Obi abruptly left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2022 before its presidential primaries, a similar move is now underway. Kachikwu further described the opposition coalition’s current leadership—formed through a recent takeover of the ADC—as illegitimate and orchestrated by “failed politicians” who, in his words, brought “viruses and bacteria” into the party.
This comes in the wake of the formal adoption of the ADC by the opposition coalition as its vehicle for the 2027 elections. Prominent figures such as former Senate President David Mark and ex-governor Rauf Aregbesola were installed as interim chairman and secretary, respectively.
“Peter Obi, alongside other opposition leaders including Atiku Abubakar and Nasir El-Rufai, publicly endorsed the coalition move, describing it as a united front to rescue Nigeria and a product of “deep reflection.”
However, Kachikwu has dismissed the process entirely. He questioned the legitimacy of Ralph Nwosu’s continuation as ADC chairman beyond his constitutional term, labeling the takeover as a backdoor operation. He emphasized that he and other original members of the ADC would not recognize the coalition’s authority.
He also warned that if the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recognizes the factional leadership, he would withdraw from the party altogether.
Observers note that Obi has yet to directly address Kachikwu’s allegations or hint at any plans to leave the coalition.
His recent public statements have focused on unity and the need for collaborative opposition, but the controversy has sparked speculation about whether the fragile alliance can hold through the 2027 election season.
Political analysts suggest that with multiple heavyweight politicians vying for the same platform, internal rivalries are likely to intensify. If the coalition fails to maintain internal consensus, it could lead to further fragmentation of the opposition—undermining efforts to challenge the ruling party in the next general elections.
For now, the fate of the coalition remains uncertain, as questions linger over trust, ambition, and the ability of its major figures to work as a team toward a common goal.
