The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has clarified that Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, and former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, have not yet been formally registered as members of the party.
Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja over the weekend, the ADC’s Interim National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, addressed the widespread speculation about their defection. He explained that while Obi and El-Rufai remain influential allies within the growing ADC-led coalition, they are yet to complete their official membership process.
Abdullahi noted that the delay is not due to any internal disagreement but rather the need for both politicians to conclude outstanding political commitments within their former parties.
“They were given space to finalise pending obligations, including by-elections and governorship candidate selections in their legacy parties,” he said.
He emphasised that both leaders remain deeply committed to the coalition’s broader objectives and are expected to complete their transition once these processes are concluded.
Abdullahi also reaffirmed the party’s dedication to internal democracy and transparency as it prepares for the 2027 general elections. “ADC has no anointed candidate. Everyone will have a fair and open chance to contest for the presidential ticket,” he stated.
Regarding legal concerns, Abdullahi dismissed reports of pending court cases, asserting that the party has addressed all legal matters to remain compliant with electoral laws.
This clarification comes amid intensified political realignments and coalition discussions ahead of the 2027 elections, with many opposition figures exploring alternative platforms amid growing dissatisfaction with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
