A fresh wave of political tension surrounds Peter Obi’s decision to join the ADC-led coalition before 2027 elections.
Political observers believe Peter Obi’s involvement in the opposition coalition may have been strategically orchestrated to mislead him.
The coalition, currently led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), is speculated to back Atiku Abubakar for the presidency.
Recently, Atiku Abubakar signaled his return to the race, declaring a fierce crackdown on corruption if elected president.
He boldly stated, “We will declare war against corruption, and anyone guilty will be decisively punished without exceptions.”
In contrast, Peter Obi expressed a clear intent to serve only one term if elected in the upcoming election.
He said, “If any agreement limits me to one term, I’ll willingly hand over by May 28, 2031.”
Former adviser Katchy Ononuju, who supported Obi’s 2023 bid, claimed coalition leaders deliberately tricked Obi into participating.
He explained, “They asked Obi to register, promising zoning to the South after inauguration. That strategy was a trap.”
Ononuju further warned Obi that the ADC might be a political construct designed solely to push Atiku’s candidacy.
He emphasized, “I told Obi—don’t trust them. These actors are manipulating zoning just like they did in PDP.”
Moreover, Ononuju reminded Nigerians that the Obidient Movement was formed to defend Southern zoning and electoral inclusion.
“We built the movement to promote fairness. I cannot support a deal that betrays our people’s political aspirations,” he said.
Ononuju currently heads the Heritage Centre, a think tank focused on democratic accountability, research, and inclusive governance.
He added, “Builders create the foundation, and if zoning swung North before, it must return South without compromise.”