…Obi decision was informed by the city’s historical significance
ENUGU, NIGERIA- The iNews Times | Peter Obi, Former Anambra State governor and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, selected Enugu State as the venue for his defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) because the South-East intends to send a strong political message ahead of the 2027 elections, according to the leader of the Obidient Movement, Dr. Yunusa Tanko.
Speaking with iNews Times, Tanko said leaders and members of the Obidient Movement, who played a key role in his 2023 campaign, had converged in Enugu, the South-East zonal capital, for the event. He explained that he had been part of the ADC coalition for some time and that the gathering was meant to outline the direction forward for his supporters nationwide.
Explaining why Enugu was chosen instead of Awka, Anambra State, Tanko said the city’s historical significance informed the decision. “Enugu is the historical capital of the East, and it gives weight and symbolism when the region wants to make a statement,” he said.
Tanko added that the programme was designed for him to address his supporters and set the tone for the 2027 elections, noting that members of the Obidient Movement were present in large numbers to show solidarity.
A national leader of the ADC confirmed that top party officials would be present to formally receive him, saying the party’s national chairman and other leaders were expected at the event scheduled to hold at Nike Lake Hotel, Enugu.
Earlier in the week, Obi had declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election, describing himself as the most prepared candidate for the task. His defection follows months of speculation about his political future.
A prominent member of the Obidient Movement said his move to the ADC, though difficult, was unavoidable, describing the party as one of the few platforms not yet influenced by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The source added that Obi would be joining the ADC alongside serving federal and state lawmakers and other political heavyweights to strengthen his political leverage.
Another ADC chieftain welcomed Obi, assuring that the party’s candidate selection process would be open and transparent.
However, some voices within the Obidient Movement expressed reservations. Dr. Katch Onanuju, who identified himself as a pioneer leader of the movement, warned that his decision could be risky, claiming entrenched interests within the ADC might work against his ambition. He said his entry into the party came late and could complicate his chances, though he wished him well in his new political path.
