The African Democratic Congress has described the defection of former presidential candidates, Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, as a significant setback but insisted it does not threaten the party’s broader coalition agenda ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said on Monday that while the departure of the two political heavyweights was deeply felt, it would not derail ongoing efforts to build a formidable opposition platform.
Speaking during an interview on ARISE NEWS, Abdullahi acknowledged the impact of their exit but maintained that the development was not fatal to the party’s ambitions.
“It would be unrealistic to say their exit means nothing. These are prominent political figures, and their departure is naturally a loss. However, it is not a mortal blow,” he said.
He explained that the coalition initiative was driven by the need for opposition forces to unite, particularly in the face of what he described as persistent challenges within individual parties.
According to him, the ADC remains committed to building a broad-based alliance capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress in the next electoral cycle.
Abdullahi also dismissed suggestions that the exit of Obi and Kwankwaso signalled the collapse of the party, noting that despite internal legal disputes, the ADC had succeeded in assembling one of the country’s strongest opposition coalitions.
He further stated that while the party was not pleased with their departure, it has allowed room to refocus on strengthening internal structures without competing pressures.
“We are not happy about their exit, but it also gives us the opportunity to concentrate on consolidating our position and advancing our objectives,” he added.
The ADC spokesman reaffirmed the party’s resolve to continue its coalition-building efforts, expressing confidence that it remains a viable political force ahead of the 2027 polls.
