The South-West Coordinator of the Obi-Kwankwaso political alliance, Dr. Adefolaseye Adebayo, has alleged that the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) experienced a massive influx of new members after former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, joined the party.
Speaking on Monday during an interview on Arise TV, Adebayo said around 10 million Nigerians enrolled in the NDC within 24 hours of Obi’s defection. She made the comment while addressing criticisms that Obi’s chances of becoming president had diminished after leaving the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the NDC.
Naija News reports that Obi, alongside former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, recently exited the ADC to join the NDC ahead of the 2027 general elections. The development has generated wide political debate, with some analysts arguing that the move could weaken Obi’s electoral prospects.
However, Adebayo rejected such claims, maintaining that Obi remains a powerful political figure in Nigeria regardless of party affiliation.
She argued that Obi’s influence is not tied to any political platform but is instead driven by his reputation, leadership style, and public perception of his competence.
Adebayo further stated that the former governor enjoys strong support across all regions of the country, stressing that it would be incorrect to assume his political strength has declined because of his switch to the NDC.
She said, “Peter Obi has widespread support across Nigeria. You cannot say his chances or those of the South-East have dropped significantly. Within 24 hours of his departure from the ADC, 10 million Nigerians signed up for the NDC, and that is very telling.”
Her remarks suggest that Obi’s entrance into the NDC significantly boosted the party’s visibility and membership growth within a very short period.
The defection of Obi and Kwankwaso has further heated political discussions ahead of the 2027 elections. Their supporters believe their partnership under the NDC could form a formidable opposition force capable of challenging the current political order.
Adebayo insisted that Obi’s appeal remains strong, adding that his followers are loyal to his ideas and leadership rather than any particular party structure.
She concluded that the sudden rise in NDC membership demonstrates continued enthusiasm among Nigerians for Obi’s political direction and the broader movement associated with him and Kwankwaso.
