Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has urged the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South in the interest of fairness, unity, and national cohesion.
Speaking in Ilọrin at the 2nd Annual Colloquium in honour of Associate Professor Abdulmumin Yinka Ajia, Obi said allowing the South to produce the next president would help balance Nigeria’s political structure and foster inclusiveness.
Obi, who was represented by the National Coordinator of the Obidients Movement, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, questioned the push for another northern presidency in 2027.
“Why should we have a northerner again when the South hasn’t completed its turn?” Obi asked. “Let the South take its shot and finish what was started. Afterwards, our northern brothers can have their full eight years. That is justice, and it promotes unity.”
His comments come amid reports that the ADC has been adopted by a coalition of opposition figures—including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar—as a platform to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general election. Former Senate President David Mark and ex-Interior Minister Rauf Aregbesola have been named as interim national chairman and secretary of the party.
Although Atiku is reportedly interested in the ADC ticket, Obi and fellow coalition member, former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi, have both committed to serving only one term if elected.
Obi emphasized that his political ambition remains intact and that he will contest in 2027—regardless of the coalition’s final decision.
“Obi will run in 2027, whether or not the coalition gives him the ticket,” Yunusa said. “When the time comes, we will announce the platform. But what’s clear is that he is a capable and committed leader with a clear vision for Nigeria.”
He also warned the coalition against making political mistakes that could cost them the election, drawing a comparison to the annulled 1993 election won by Moshood Abiola.
“This is a chance to do what is right and fair,” Obi said, urging opposition leaders to prioritize unity and national interest over personal ambition.
