The battle for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections has taken a competitive turn, with political economist and ADC chieftain Professor Pat Utomi boldly declaring that he is more prepared to lead Nigeria than some of the country’s most prominent presidential hopefuls, including Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar and President Bola Tinubu.
Utomi made the remarks while speaking on the Politics Today programme on January 18, 2026, outlining his vision for Nigeria and his readiness to offer national leadership. He argued that his long years in politics and his commitment to democratic principles give him an edge over other aspirants eyeing the presidency. “Has it ever occurred to you that I am more qualified than all of them — Atiku, Obi, including Bola Tinubu — in terms of preparation to lead Nigeria?” he asked during the interview.
The ADC stalwart traced his political journey back to his early involvement with the party and subsequent efforts at coalition-building after the 2007 elections. Utomi said those efforts, which brought together various political actors, have continued to shape his understanding of inclusive leadership and national governance. He emphasised that his loyalty to the ADC, which he said he has never left since 2007, demonstrates his enduring commitment to the party and its values.
In addition to positioning himself as a credible contender, Utomi dismissed the notion that the defection of state governors to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) would automatically translate into electoral victories in 2027. He cited past instances where similar assumptions failed to produce the expected political outcomes, cautioning against overestimating the influence of political defections on election results.
Utomi also voiced concerns about Nigeria’s deepening democratic challenges, warning that delaying necessary reforms could have severe consequences for the country’s future. Stressing the need for credible and inclusive leadership, he urged Nigerians to prioritise long-term national interests over short-term political manoeuvres.
His intervention comes as several high-profile politicians are already positioning themselves within the ADC. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Labour Party flagbearer Peter Obi have emerged as strong contenders within the party’s presidential landscape, attracting significant attention from both supporters and analysts.
The evolving contest is expected to further intensify as aspirants ramp up consultations, endorsements and strategic campaigning ahead of the party’s nomination process. Political insiders say the competition could reshape opposition dynamics, particularly as the ADC seeks to consolidate its position as a formidable challenge to the ruling APC in 2027.
Utomi’s remarks have already sparked debate within political circles, with some observers welcoming his emphasis on experience and reform, while others argue that the opposition landscape will ultimately favour candidates with broader national recognition. As the race for the ADC ticket unfolds, key questions remain over how unity, strategy and electoral appeal will influence the party’s choice and its prospects in the general election.
