Dr. Peter Okeh, the chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has said the 2027 presidential election will be a direct contest between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Nigerian people, not the coalition’s adopted political platform.
Dr. Okeh made this statement during a press briefing with journalists in Abakaliki on Sunday, where he attributed the growing support for the newly formed opposition coalition to the widespread hardship currently being experienced across the country.
“I am absolutely thrilled by the emergence of this coalition. It marks a significant moment in our nation’s political history,” he said. “In the face of abject poverty, hunger, massive corruption, insecurity, and total state capture under the APC-led government, it is refreshing to see respected Nigerians unite to form a formidable front to rescue our democracy.”
He stressed that the 2027 general elections would be unlike any other in Nigeria’s history.
“This will not be a typical election. It will be a battle between the APC and Nigerians from all walks of life—those who have endured the suffering brought upon them by this administration, both at home and abroad. This time, Nigerians will protect their votes. There will be no free pass for electoral manipulation like in the past,” he said.
Dr. Okeh also endorsed former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, as the most suitable person to lead the coalition and potentially fly the ADC’s presidential flag in 2027.
“I strongly believe Peter Obi is the right person to lead this movement,” he said. “He has the nationwide appeal, the grassroots support from the Obidient Movement, and the political experience necessary to win. He has also grown significantly since 2023—reaching more Nigerians and strengthening his presence in areas he previously hadn’t.”
According to him, the political climate has shifted dramatically, and many Nigerians are now more united in their opposition to the current government.
“Nigerians have now tasted the bitter consequences of the APC’s misrule, and they are more ready than ever to take back the country,” he added.
Dr. Okeh concluded by calling for fairness and equity in the power rotation, noting that many citizens would find it unjust if the South is denied the opportunity to complete the traditional eight-year presidential cycle.
