A leading political figure has raised fresh questions about the viability of Peter Obi’s presidential ambition within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. Former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant from Adamawa, Umar Ardo, said Obi may struggle to secure the ADC’s presidential nomination if former Vice President Atiku Abubakar does not step aside.

Ardo made the remark on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Tuesday, describing the former PDP presidential candidate as strongly favoured to win the ADC ticket. He said that, in its current structure, the party leans heavily toward Atiku due to his political clout and recognition within the system.

“Well, the ADC, as it is currently constituted, if it goes for primaries a hundred times, Atiku will win a hundred times,” Ardo said, stressing that Obi’s path to becoming the party’s flag-bearer is largely dependent on Atiku voluntarily withdrawing from the contest.

Obi Still a Key Political Asset

Despite raising doubts about Obi’s chance at the ADC ticket, Ardo acknowledged the former Anambra governor’s influence as a political asset. He said Obi controls a significant voter base, with an estimated more than six million votes drawn from his widely-followed 2023 presidential campaign. This, Ardo said, remains valuable for the ADC’s strategy going into 2027.

Obi’s formal defection to the ADC in late 2025 marked a major shift in his political journey. He announced his move at a high-profile event in Enugu, saying it symbolized a new beginning toward socio-economic development, national unity, and challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). His departure from the Labour Party, where he was the presidential candidate in 2023, re-energised discussions about opposition unity and coalition building.

2027 Opposition Landscape

The ADC has emerged as one of the central platforms for opposition leaders seeking to unseat the ruling APC in the upcoming election. Beyond Obi and Atiku, the party and its coalition partners include prominent figures such as former Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi, former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and ex-Senate President David Mark. These leaders have added depth and visibility to the opposition coalition but have also raised questions about internal dynamics and presidential ambition within the party.

Political analysts suggest that whether Obi or Atiku secures the ADC ticket could influence the overall strength of the opposition front. Past reports have noted internal tensions and strategic calculations as parties and aspirants align themselves for the 2027 battle, including the consideration of other figures as consensus options amid competition between the high-profile leaders.

What It Means for Obi and ADC

Ardo’s commentary underscores the political reality within party structures — name recognition and entrenched networks often play a decisive role in internal primaries. While Obi’s grassroots support and broad appeal have been key features of his political brand, Atiku’s long tenure and influence within Nigerian politics give him a strong footing within the ADC if both men contest the same ticket.

Ultimately, Ardo suggested, Obi’s emergence as the ADC flagbearer may hinge on strategic decisions made by party stakeholders — especially Atiku’s willingness to give way. As the 2027 elections approach, these internal negotiations and public positioning within the opposition coalition will be closely watched by political observers and voters alike.