ADC Leaders Race To Halt Obi, Kwankwaso Defection Plans

Leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) are reportedly intensifying efforts to prevent the possible defection of former presidential candidates, Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, amid growing uncertainty within the opposition coalition.

According to Ireporter Online, speculation has mounted that both politicians are weighing a move to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as early as next week, with the aim of pursuing a joint presidential bid ahead of the 2027 general elections. The development comes as prominent figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, have openly expressed interest in securing the ADC’s presidential ticket.

Political momentum around a potential alliance between Obi and Kwankwaso has also been building, driven by support from their respective bases, widely known as the Obidient Movement and the Kwankwasiyya Movement. The push for a joint front has further fueled indications of collaboration ahead of the party’s primaries.

Despite these developments, discussions surrounding a possible defection are said to have reached an advanced stage, raising concerns among ADC stakeholders. A senior party figure, speaking in an interview cited by Ireporter Online, confirmed that internal efforts are ongoing to address the situation and retain both leaders within the party. The source expressed optimism that existing grievances would be resolved through dialogue.

Meanwhile, the ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, described reports of an imminent defection as speculative, noting that no formal communication has been made by either Obi or Kwankwaso. He clarified that party leaders are engaging the duo not to dissuade them from leaving, but to ascertain their positions beyond circulating rumours, emphasizing that any decision would ultimately remain their prerogative.

In a similar vein, the founding National Chairman of the ADC, Okey Nwosu, voiced confidence in the party’s leadership to manage the situation effectively. He added that mechanisms have been established to ensure a transparent presidential nomination process, including the possibility of a credible primary if consensus proves unattainable.