Peter Obi Accused of Plotting to Exit ADC, South-South Group Issues Stern Warning

As political tensions intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, Benjamin Kolowei, leader of the South-South Emerging Leaders’ Forum, has made explosive allegations against former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, claiming that the ex-Anambra State governor is planning to ditch the opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for another platform.

According to iReporter Online, Kolowei accused Obi of attempting to coerce the leadership of the ADC coalition into zoning the 2027 presidential ticket to the South, warning that such tactics amount to blackmail and are unacceptable in a democratic context. He further cautioned that if the South insists on retaining the presidency, the North might also begin demanding its own share of power to balance the 18 years the South has enjoyed in leadership.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Thursday, Kolowei stated that Obi must participate in a transparent presidential primary within the coalition if he intends to be taken seriously as a candidate. He argued that Obi and his followers, often referred to as the “Obedient Movement,” have developed a pattern of political intimidation, which has repeatedly failed.

“Peter Obi has consistently avoided primary elections—a fundamental pillar of any democratic process. In 2023, he walked away from the PDP when it was time for primaries, just like he did as governor. This habit of seeking free rides must end,” Kolowei asserted, according to iReporter Online.

The Forum, which describes itself as a body of professionals and rising political leaders, declared that it would not stand by and allow Obi to jeopardize the ongoing plans to build a credible alternative to the ruling APC. It accused him of creating unnecessary friction within the coalition and posturing as a messiah while contributing little to Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

According to iReporter Online, Kolowei hinted that Obi has already secured a new political platform for his 2027 ambitions, warning ADC coalition leaders to be vigilant and avoid being blindsided. “The time has come for Mr. Obi to drop the façade and engage in open democratic contests instead of looking for shortcuts,” he added.

The group concluded by stressing that democracy thrives on competition—not blackmail or entitlement—and advised Obi and his supporters to embrace the values of internal democracy and national unity, rather than promoting division under the guise of political agitation.