ADC Grants Peter Obi and Nasir El-Rufai Waiver to Stay in Their Parties Ahead of 2027 Elections
Story: Reported by Okafor Joseph and Rita Uzuh for SpringnewsNG Media Limited.
Abuja, Nigeria – July 31, 2025: The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has officially confirmed that former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, have received a waiver to remain in their current political parties while participating in the opposition coalition led by the ADC ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The announcement was made by Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC’s interim national publicity secretary, in a statement reported by The Punch. He explained that the waiver was granted to protect the political structures both leaders have established within their existing parties.
“Absolutely, this applies to both Obi and Nasir (El-Rufai),” Abdullahi said. “Their supporters and allies have already obtained nomination forms under their current party platforms. Forcing them to defect now would disorganise their political structures. They requested a concession, and it was granted.”
The clarification comes after David Mark, the ADC’s interim national chairman, warned against anti-party activities and indiscipline, stressing that members must either fully align with ADC or stay out. The waiver signals a strategic compromise as the restructured opposition coalition positions itself for 2027.
Obi Reaffirms Loyalty to Labour Party
Amid rising speculation about his political alignment, Peter Obi’s camp emphasized that he remains a Labour Party member and is only engaging with the coalition for strategic coordination ahead of the elections.
Obi’s media aide, Yunusa Tanko, dismissed viral social media statements claiming that Obi had either pledged allegiance to ADC or been offered the role of National Organising Secretary in the party.
“These statements did not originate from Obi or his media office,” said Umar Ibrahim, another aide. “He has been unequivocal in his stance and will not accept anyone speaking for him to push their own agenda.”
The ADC’s waiver highlights the delicate balancing act in Nigeria’s opposition politics, as influential figures retain their existing platforms while collaborating under a unified coalition to challenge the ruling party in 2027.
