ADC Slams PDP’s Bid To Lure Peter Obi, Signals Party’s Waning Influence.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has sharply criticised the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for its reported attempts to woo Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate, branding the move as a sign of the PDP’s dwindling political clout. In a statement issued on Thursday, the ADC described the PDP’s efforts as “laughable,” arguing that the once-dominant party’s need to court high-profile figures underscores its loss of relevance in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, remarked that the PDP’s pursuit of Obi, a key figure in the ADC-led opposition coalition, highlights how far the former ruling party has fallen. “If the PDP is truly wooing Peter Obi, that tells you how low the party has degenerated,” Abdullahi said, noting that the PDP, which once commanded widespread loyalty, is now “begging for candidates all over the place.” He emphasised that Obi remains committed to the ADC coalition, dismissing speculation about a return to the PDP as baseless. “Peter Obi knows better than to take the risk of returning to a party under the influence of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC),” Abdullahi added, referencing the PDP’s internal challenges and perceived external control.
The ADC’s remarks come amid growing speculation about Obi’s political plans for the 2027 elections. Having contested the 2023 presidential election under the Labour Party, Obi has emerged as a central figure in the ADC’s coalition, which aims to unite opposition forces to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s APC. Political analysts suggest that Obi’s popularity and the coalition’s growing momentum pose a significant threat to the PDP’s status as Nigeria’s main opposition party. Iliyasu Hadi, a political commentator, noted that the ADC’s appeal, bolstered by figures like Obi and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, could soon eclipse the PDP’s influence, particularly as the latter grapples with defections and internal strife.
The PDP, however, has downplayed the ADC’s criticisms. Debo Ologunagba, the PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, insisted that the party remains the leading opposition force with a strong national support base. He argued that Nigerians continue to view the PDP as a credible alternative to the APC, citing its historical performance and widespread appeal. Ologunagba dismissed the ADC’s claims, stating that the PDP would not engage in disputes with smaller opposition parties but would instead focus on galvanising support to oust the APC in 2027.
The ADC’s confidence in its coalition’s strength is evident as it continues to consolidate its position. Interim chairman David Mark has described the coalition as a vital effort to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy and prevent a slide into a one-party state. With Obi and other prominent figures like Atiku Abubakar aligning with the ADC, the party is positioning itself as a formidable force ahead of the 2027 elections. Abdullahi reiterated that the ADC remains focused on building a united front, undeterred by the PDP’s overtures. “We are not bothered by their moves. Our coalition is strong, and Peter Obi is with us,” he said.
As Nigeria’s political landscape evolves, the ADC’s sharp rebuke of the PDP signals a broader shift in opposition dynamics. With the 2027 elections looming, the battle for political relevance is intensifying, and the ADC’s coalition appears poised to capitalise on the PDP’s perceived vulnerabilities, potentially reshaping the nation’s political future.
