Peter Obi NDC presidential move praised by Prof Pat Utomi, who says the shift was smart and prevented political entrapment
Prof Pat Utomi, a scholar, activist and former Nigerian presidential candidate, speaking on Tuesday, 2 June 2026 during an interview on Arise News television, said Peter Obi’s reported move from the African Democratic Congress to the Nigerian Democratic Congress was a strategic and “smart” political decision that prevented him from being politically trapped.
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Peter Obi NDC presidential move comes amid heightened political realignments within Nigeria’s opposition space, as parties position themselves ahead of future general elections.
Prof Utomi argued that developments within the African Democratic Congress, including complaints from prominent aspirants such as Mr Chibuike Amaechi and Dr Mohammed Hayatu-Deen over the conduct of primaries, suggested deeper structural issues within the coalition.
He described the internal disputes as evidence of what he called a flawed and overly controlled selection process, warning that such dynamics risk undermining genuine democratic competition within party structures.
Utomi stated that although internal polling had suggested Mr Obi could have performed strongly within the ADC, the broader environment would likely have constrained a fair contest, making the reported shift a prudent decision.
He further criticised what he described as repeated irregularities across party primaries, arguing that the process has increasingly become symbolic rather than truly competitive, with outcomes often perceived as predetermined.
Peter Obi NDC presidential move has therefore drawn attention within political circles, particularly following reports that Obi has been formally presented as the party’s presidential candidate and has selected Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso as his running mate.
Meanwhile, tensions within the African Democratic Congress have continued to surface following the party’s primary election, which saw former Vice President Atiku Abubakar emerge as the party’s flag bearer after a contest that triggered objections from some aspirants.
Mr Amaechi, one of the prominent contenders, had previously rejected the outcome, alleging irregularities in the process, though he has since remained largely silent following political reconciliations within the party.
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Prof Utomi concluded that meaningful reform of internal party democracy remains essential if Nigeria is to achieve credible and transparent electoral outcomes in future cycles.
