Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, may be on the verge of leaving the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Strong indications suggest that Obi is weighing a move to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) after weeks of quiet political engagements and consultations.
POLITICS NIGERIA can confirm from insider reports that discussions around his possible defection have intensified in recent weeks.
The move, if confirmed, would mark a major realignment within the opposition bloc and could reshape calculations ahead of the next presidential race.
There are strong claims that Obi has already agreed in principle to align with the ADC. Plans are reportedly underway for a public declaration in Enugu before the end of the year.
Supporters loyal to the former Anambra State governor are said to be mobilising for the event, even as formal confirmation remains absent.
Party figures familiar with the talks say Obi recently held high-level meetings with key ADC leaders. These discussions were said to focus on strengthening a broad political coalition aimed at challenging the ruling party in 2027.
The ADC has been actively courting prominent political figures as part of its expansion drive.
The renewed engagement follows a moment of tension earlier this month, after Obi reportedly described the ADC as unstable.
The party responded by urging him to make a clear decision on whether he intended to join the coalition or not. That exchange is believed to have triggered deeper consultations.
Within ADC circles, there is confidence that Obi’s hesitation is fading. Party officials argue that Enugu, rather than Anambra, was chosen for the proposed declaration because of its symbolic status in the South-East. They say the move reflects a regional outlook rather than a state-based ambition.
However, ADC leadership has maintained a cautious public stance. Party officials insist that while talks are ongoing, no official announcement has been made.
They say any declaration would only be confirmed when all internal processes are concluded.
The Obidient Movement has also refused to take a clear position. Its leadership insists that only Peter Obi himself can speak on such a critical political decision. The movement has remained silent amid growing speculation across political circles.
Meanwhile, the Labour Party has played down reports of Obi’s imminent exit. Party leaders say they are not alarmed by the speculation and will wait for Obi to personally address the matter.
They describe party defections as a regular feature of Nigerian politics.
Labour Party officials argue that any decision by Obi to leave would be based on personal political calculations. They maintain that the party remains stable and capable of surviving beyond any individual.
While expressing no hostility, party leaders say they would have preferred internal reconciliation.
They also reminded Obi of the platform the party provided during the 2023 elections. According to them, remaining within the party would allow unresolved issues to be addressed internally.
Still, they insist they would not stand in his way if he chooses another political path.
As of now, Obi has not made any public statement to confirm or deny the reports. His silence has only fueled speculation and heightened political interest across the country.
