Power Play Exposed: Why Atiku, Peter Obi Haven’t Declared For ADC Despite Rumours

A recent report has revealed that the 2023 presidential candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, and the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, have not formally left their respective parties due to ongoing deliberations over the 2027 presidential ticket within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

According to sources quoted by Punch, both leaders are waiting for the ADC to finalize its zoning arrangement. Once a decision is made—particularly one that favours their presidential ambitions—they are expected to officially join the coalition platform aimed at challenging President Bola Tinubu in the next general election.

An insider disclosed that the ADC leadership has already begun working behind the scenes. Once the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) publishes the timetable for the 2027 elections, the party intends to activate its political machinery to welcome mass defections and formal membership.

Although Obi has publicly expressed support for the ADC, he has yet to formally register with the party. Similarly, Atiku has not made any formal move, but many within the coalition believe he remains a strong contender for 2027.

Both men and their loyalists still officially belong to their respective parties, with no public declarations of defection.

One party insider expressed concern over the delay, saying, “We expected them, or at least many of their allies, to resign from their legacy parties and officially join the ADC by Wednesday during the unveiling of the coalition platform.

“They’re waiting to see how the zoning arrangement unfolds—whether the ticket goes to the North or the South. But I’m confident that once the party leadership makes a decision, many of them will come on board.”

Another source noted that the coalition remains on track and that the decision on the presidential ticket will be a major milestone.

“While various people are joining for different reasons, the central aim is to unite and unseat the failed administration of President Bola Tinubu.

“At this stage, Atiku, Obi, and others are holding back primarily because discussions around zoning are still ongoing. Once that’s resolved, they and their supporters will likely make the switch.

“The party leadership is working quickly so that when INEC announces the timetable, everything will be in place for mass entry into the ADC.”