Peter Obi's Defection Boosts ADC’s Relevance

Former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose has stated that Obi’s defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has significantly increased the party’s relevance.

In an interview with Arise News, Fayose stated that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is no longer Nigeria’s leading opposition force, attributing its decline to internal divisions.

He described the PDP as “a house that is divided against itself” and emphasised that its struggles stem from internal failings rather than external forces.

Fayose also commented on the broader opposition parties, noting that Nigeria generally has two dominant parties at a time.

Peter Obi's Defection Boosts ADC’s Relevance - Fayose — Fayose says that Peter Obi’s defection boosts ADC’s relevance. Credit: Punch

He pointed to ADC following Obi’s move, observing that Obi is the main source of the party’s traction.

“Let Obi not go to ADC. Let Obi go to another party. Let’s say Obi is in Accord.

“Obi is the only traction. Obi is the only meaning, Obi is the only factor, and Obi is the only person in ADC that matters.”

Fayose also stated that while other political figures, including Atiku Abubakar, are associated with ADC, they are “largely spent forces,” and it is Obi who gives the party meaning and influence.

He further stressed that even if ADC does not fully leverage Obi’s political weight, the party would still benefit from his presence, though it would be in a worse position than if it had not gained him at all.