By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Former Anambra State governor and 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi on Saturday formally registered with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Agulu, Aniocha Local Government Area of Anambra State. Obi joined the party to strengthen opposition alliances ahead of the 2027 elections and announced plans to challenge the new Electoral Act 2026 in court, accusing it of favouring the ruling party.
Obi Calls for United Opposition Ahead of 2027
Obi stressed the need for stronger collaboration among opposition parties across Nigeria. He said leaders in the South-East have started discussions with political stakeholders in other regions.
According to him, the goal is to build a strong alliance capable of presenting a credible alternative in the 2027 elections.
“We in the South-East are working as a family and engaging other regions,” Obi said.
“The goal is to unite the opposition and build a new Nigeria. The South-East is fully part of Nigeria.”
Concern Over Nigeria’s Economic Conditions
Obi also raised concerns about Nigeria’s economic situation. He said the country faces severe poverty despite abundant natural and human resources.
According to him, worsening hardship shows the urgent need for a new direction in governance.
“We cannot continue with Nigeria ranked among the poorest nations globally,” he said.
He added that his vision focuses on creating opportunities for every Nigerian regardless of background.
“We want a Nigeria where a child of nobody becomes somebody without knowing anybody,” Obi stated.
ADC Introduces Hybrid Membership Registration
The National Organising Secretary of the ADC, Chinedu Idigo, said the party now operates a hybrid membership registration system.
The process allows people to register both online and physically.
Idigo advised members to complete online registration before visiting designated centres to collect their membership cards.
He also revealed that the party already sent 50,000 membership cards to Anambra State. More cards will arrive as membership interest grows.
Party Adopts Direct Primary System
The ADC plans to adopt a direct primary system to select candidates for future elections.
Idigo said the approach will strengthen internal democracy within the party.
He believes the system will allow members to play a greater role in choosing party candidates.
Obi’s Move Boosts ADC Prospects
The ADC candidate in the November 8, 2025 Anambra governorship election, John Nwosu, described Obi’s registration as a major milestone.
According to him, the development could boost the party’s chances in future elections.
“This is a day of joy. Obi’s journey to the presidency begins today,” Nwosu said.
He also urged party members to remain united and avoid internal divisions.
Grassroots Mobilisation Ahead of Elections
Obi called on supporters to intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of future elections.
He urged citizens to register as voters and participate actively in the democratic process.
According to him, Anambra State has about 2.8 million registered voters.
He therefore encouraged party members to reach communities and mobilise people to vote.
Obi to Challenge Electoral Act 2026
Obi criticised the hurried passage of the Electoral Act 2026. He said the process raised concerns about the credibility of future elections.
He also accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of interfering in internal party processes.
According to him, the electoral body should only conduct elections rather than dictate how parties select candidates.
“You do not tell a team how to prepare its players before a match,” Obi said.
“As a referee, INEC should officiate, not decide which players a team fields.”
He insisted that some provisions in the law appear designed to favour the ruling party ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
