By Achile Danjuma
Former Governor of Anambra State and prominent presidential hopeful, Mr. Peter Obi, has officially joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), bringing an end to months of speculation regarding his political future. The move signals a strategic shift as he builds new alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Obi announced his membership on Saturday in Awka during the flag-off of the ADC’s membership mobilisation, registration, and revalidation exercise for Anambra State. The event marked his formal return to the party, which he previously belonged to earlier in his political career.
In his address, Obi also declared his intention to challenge the recently passed 2026 Electoral Act in court, arguing that some of its provisions could undermine the integrity of the upcoming elections.
“We will be going to court to challenge some of the provisions of the new Electoral Act that we believe will affect the conduct of the 2027 elections,” Obi stated.
The former Labour Party presidential candidate called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to uphold its constitutional duty by remaining neutral and avoiding interference in the internal affairs of political parties. “A referee does not determine the rules, choices or line-up of players in teams or clubs,” he said, urging INEC to focus solely on conducting free, fair, and credible elections.
Political analysts view Obi’s decision to join the ADC as a significant development that could reshape opposition dynamics and strengthen the party’s national appeal ahead of the next election cycle.
During the event, Obi encouraged party members and supporters across the state to participate in the registration exercise and mobilise others to join the ADC.
The gathering drew several key political figures. Senator Ndii Obi, who chaired the occasion, assured members that the ADC would provide an inclusive platform for political participation. He urged party supporters to unite in strengthening the party ahead of future contests.
The Chairman of the ADC Registration Committee in Anambra State, Hon. Ben Nwosu, described the exercise as critical for consolidating the party’s grassroots presence, announcing that the first batch of membership cards would be distributed across the state’s 21 local government areas.
National Organising Secretary Chinedu Idigo detailed that registration would be conducted both online and manually, advising prospective members to complete the digital process before collecting their physical cards at designated centres. Idigo also revealed that the party plans to adopt a direct primary system for selecting future candidates.
John Nwosu, the ADC’s candidate for the upcoming November 8, 2025 Anambra State governorship election, hailed the event as a pivotal moment for strengthening the party’s political structure.
Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central, described the gathering as a significant political mobilisation and reiterated his support for Obi’s political aspirations.