That’s A Lot” — NDC Records Over 10 Million New Members Hours After Peter Obi Joins Party

According to Ireporter Online, the South-West Coordinator of the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement, Dr. Adefolaseye Adebayo, has claimed that the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) recorded an influx of about 10 million new members within 24 hours following the defection of former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, into the party.

Adebayo made the statement on Monday during an interview on Arise TV, while responding to criticisms suggesting that Obi’s chances of becoming Nigeria’s president had diminished after he left the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the NDC. Obi, alongside former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, had on Sunday formally exited the ADC to join the NDC ahead of the next general elections.

The development has continued to generate political debate, with critics arguing that Obi’s move could weaken his presidential ambition ahead of 2027. However, Adebayo dismissed such claims, insisting that Obi remains a dominant political figure whose influence cuts across the country.

She maintained that Obi’s popularity is rooted not only in party affiliation but also in his personal appeal, track record, and perceived competence. According to her, it is misleading to assume that his political relevance has declined due to his defection.

Adebayo further stated that Obi enjoys widespread support across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and should not be politically underestimated. She said, “Mr. Peter Obi has a lot of followership across Nigeria. You cannot say that Obi’s chances or that of the South East have drastically reduced. Within 24 hours of his exit from the ADC, 10 million Nigerians registered with the NDC, and that says a lot.”

She added that the growing membership of the NDC following Obi’s defection reflects continued public interest in his political movement and alliance with Kwankwaso, noting that supporters remain aligned with his vision regardless of party structure.

The Obi-Kwankwaso alliance has continued to generate nationwide discussions as political actors and observers weigh its potential impact on the 2027 general elections, with supporters describing it as a possible strong opposition bloc against the current political establishment.