The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has ruled out the possibility of the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, returning to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
According to the coalition party, such a move would be politically perilous for Anambra State’s former governor.
Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC’s spokesman, made the claim on Monday while appearing on Arise Television’s Prime Time, a current affairs broadcast.
Abdullahi, a former PDP leader and former minister of youth and sports, denied rumours that the PDP was attempting to entice Obi back to the party.
He emphasised that the former governor will remain a key member of the opposition party coalition led by the ADC ahead of the 2027 national elections.
He said, “Let me say clearly, Peter Obi is in the coalition.
“Regardless of what anybody is saying. But it is good to see that it has taken the coming on board of the ADC to get the PDP to begin to make some movements.
“But everyone knows the jugular of the PDP is in the hands of the ruling party. Peter Obi, more than anyone else, knows that he cannot take the risk of going to the PDP.”
Professor Jerry Gana, a former Minister of Information and founding member of the PDP, recently commended Obi as one of the few leaders with the credibility and capacity to help rebuild Nigeria.
During a recent interview with Africa Independent Television, Gana characterised Obi as “a symbol of hope” and a key person in the fight for decent government.
He stated, “Peter Obi is one of the finest leaders in this country.
“He is disciplined, prudent, and deeply committed to the Nigerian project.
“He is a key voice for the future of democracy in this country, and we need people like him at the forefront of a united opposition.”
Gana also emphasised the critical necessity for a broad coalition of credible opposition personalities, saying that no single party could unseat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027 without strategic unity.