Tensions are rising within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Nigeria as former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi’s presidential ambitions face opposition from within the party. Sources close to the matter reveal that Obi’s supporters, known as Obidients, are adamant that he must secure the party’s presidential ticket, threatening to walk away if otherwise.

This stance has led to unease among some ADC leaders, particularly from the north, who feel Obi’s backers are being overly aggressive. Some have begun distancing themselves from Obi, citing his team’s overbearing attitude.

Obi joined the ADC on December 31, 2025, alongside other opposition leaders, with plans to contest the presidency. His followers insist the south deserves the presidency for eight years before power returns to the north. However, others see this as a recipe for division [1][2][3].

Aisha Yesufu, a key Obi supporter, vowed to oppose the party if Obi runs as vice president. Similarly, Professor Pat Utomi threatened to withdraw support if Obi accepts a VP role. These developments have sparked concerns about hostility between Obi’s camp and that of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

ADC leaders are worried about the implications, with some stakeholders developing cold feet. Former ADC chairman Ralph Nwozu acknowledged concerns, attributing divisions to a small faction of Obi’s supporters. The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, warned that insisting on a particular candidate could undermine the party’s 2027 chances.