Coalition: Make up Your Mind Now, ADC Tells Obi

The African Democratic Congress has urged Labour Party figure Peter Obi to decide whether he will join its growing coalition, insisting the party will not be pressured into adopting a zoning deal to attract him. Speaking with newsmen, ADC spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi said the coalition’s focus is proving itself a viable national alternative, not negotiating zoning arrangements at this stage. He noted that while Obi is valued within the coalition, he must determine his political direction soon.

Obi was quoted in a recent online interview as saying the coalition faced internal issues, including uncertainties over zoning. His media office swiftly denied he granted the interview, maintaining that he still holds confidence in the ADC. Despite the controversy, Obi reportedly expressed faith in the coalition’s leadership and affirmed that his political choices were motivated by national interest rather than personal ambition.

Abdullahi dismissed suggestions that the coalition lacked stability, arguing that rapid nationwide expansion without holding public office was evidence of its strength. He encouraged Obi to demonstrate commitment by helping build the party’s structure in Anambra State, as other key figures were doing in their local bases.

While the ADC pushes for clarity, Obi’s ally and former campaign spokesperson, Yunusa Tanko, appealed for patience, saying Obi was engaged in extensive consultations with supporters at home and abroad. According to Tanko, Obi must avoid hasty decisions given the political stakes and the expectations of his movement.

Tanko also signalled that Obi intends to contest the 2027 presidential election, insisting that national sentiment favours a southern candidate and that northern contenders should wait until 2031. He warned that altering the zoning balance could hand the ruling party an easy victory. Tanko added that Obi would announce his political direction soon, despite what he described as efforts to block his path to securing a nomination.