Former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, has revealed that he may consider leaving the African Democratic Congress (ADC) if the party fails to uphold credible internal processes ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Obi made this known during an interview on Arise TV on Monday, where he spoke extensively about his political journey, party affiliations, and his firm stance on discipline, transparency, and accountability in political parties.
Speaking during the interview, Obi emphasized that his political decisions have consistently been driven by principles rather than convenience or personal gain. He noted that throughout his career, he has prioritized integrity and due process, even when it required making difficult choices such as leaving political parties.
Reflecting on his time in the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Obi explained that his exit from the party was a deliberate move aimed at preventing a political crisis in Anambra State. According to him, tensions surrounding his successor at the time had created an unhealthy political environment that could have destabilized governance.
He said stepping aside was necessary to preserve peace and ensure continuity in leadership, adding that his decision was rooted in a desire to protect the interests of the state rather than personal ambition.
Obi also recounted his experience in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where he expressed disappointment over what he described as a gradual shift away from established rules and democratic principles. He alleged that the party’s internal processes became increasingly influenced by personal interests and financial inducements.
“People were not playing by the rules. It was transactional. I cannot be part of a transactional primaries. I cannot be paying people to go and serve them,” Obi stated during the interview.
The former presidential candidate of the Labour Party further explained that his decision to join the party at the time was motivated by his search for a more credible and transparent political platform. However, he noted that similar structural challenges eventually emerged there as well, raising broader concerns about the state of political party systems in Nigeria.
Now a member of the ADC, Obi said he is closely monitoring developments within the party, particularly as it prepares for the 2027 elections. He warned that any sign of manipulation, lack of transparency, or compromise in the party’s internal processes would not be tolerated.
“If that process is again compromised, I will speak out,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to accountability and fairness.
Obi stressed that his loyalty lies with principles and values rather than any specific political platform. He made it clear that he would not hesitate to leave the ADC if it fails to meet the standards he expects.
“If I have to move 20 times, I will,” he emphasized, underscoring his readiness to make tough decisions in pursuit of credible governance and ethical political practices.
Political analysts say Obi’s comments come at a critical time for the ADC, which has been grappling with internal disputes and leadership challenges in recent months. His remarks are likely to intensify scrutiny on the party’s internal processes and its ability to maintain unity ahead of the next general elections.
Observers also note that Obi’s political influence and support base make his position significant, as any potential exit could have implications for the party’s strength and electoral prospects.
As the countdown to the 2027 elections gradually begins, Obi’s warning serves as a reminder of the growing demand among political stakeholders and the electorate for transparency, accountability, and adherence to democratic principles within Nigeria’s political parties.
The coming months are expected to reveal whether the ADC can address its internal challenges and retain key figures like Obi, or risk further fragmentation in an already competitive political landscape.
