Peter Obi’s ADC waiver confirms he and El-Rufai can remain in their parties for 2027. ADC grants concession to protect political structures and coalition unity
The Peter Obi’s ADC waiver has officially clarified the former Anambra State governor’s standing in the newly formed opposition coalition ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 elections.
Also read: Peter Obi ADC Membership Sparks Clarity Amid Loyalty to Coalition
Speaking exclusively to The PUNCH, Bolaji Abdullahi, Interim National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), confirmed that both Labour Party’s Peter Obi and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai have been exempted from defecting to ADC despite the coalition’s formation.
This clarification followed a stern warning issued by ADC Interim National Chairman, David Mark, who cautioned party members against any form of anti-party activities or indiscipline, declaring:
“You are either in ADC or not in ADC. No midway in this business.”
Despite the warning, Abdullahi emphasized that Peter Obi and El-Rufai have been granted waivers due to strategic considerations.
“Absolutely! Obi is correct. This applies to himself and Nasir. Their supporters have obtained forms in their legacy parties. For structural and electoral reasons, we granted them a concession,” he said.
The Peter Obi’s ADC waiver aligns with earlier statements made by Dr. Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide.
He stressed that Obi remains a “Labour man” and that his coalition involvement is focused on strategic unity for 2027, not an immediate party switch.
“Our principal made his position known from the beginning… we already made our position known right from the start,” Tanko reaffirmed.
Meanwhile, Obi’s media aide, Umar Ibrahim, debunked viral claims suggesting Obi had either reaffirmed allegiance to ADC or had been offered a party position.
“Peter Obi has been unequivocal in his coalition stance. He remains focused on his mission and has not authorized any such statements,” Ibrahim clarified.
The ADC, now serving as the flagship platform for the opposition coalition, has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy for indiscipline.
Still, the concession for Obi and El-Rufai signals a practical approach to opposition unity ahead of the polls.
The Peter Obi’s ADC waiver is not just about exemption; it reflects a broader strategic recalibration within Nigeria’s political space.
As the ADC prepares for sweeping reforms and grassroots mobilisation, coalition leaders appear committed to balancing discipline with inclusiveness.
For now, both Obi and El-Rufai will remain in their legacy parties, enabling them to sustain their support base while working within the coalition framework.
Also read: Peter Obi ADC Coalition Stronger than PDP, Says Bolaji Abdullahi
As the nation heads toward 2027, Obi continues to emphasize his mission of building “a new Nigeria of our dreams”—a vision supported but not dictated by party alliances.
