The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has granted Peter Obi and Nasir El-Rufai waivers ahead 2027 presidential election.
This waiver allows both political leaders to remain in their legacy parties without breaching opposition coalition membership terms.
ADC’s interim National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, confirmed the decision during a media interview held on Wednesday.
His statement followed a stern warning from ADC interim Chairman, David Mark, against all forms of anti-party activities.
While addressing party members in Abuja, Mark emphasized discipline, unity, and full loyalty to the ADC party platform.
Mark declared, “No halfway commitment will be tolerated; members must either align completely or exit the political structure.”
He also revealed plans to restructure ADC’s grassroots leadership from polling units to national levels across the country.
Mark stressed that all future nominations and leadership roles would favour the younger generation of passionate, progressive Nigerians.
Amid speculations, many believed ADC was lobbying Peter Obi and other heavyweights to defect before the 2027 election.
However, Obi’s camp dismissed any panic, insisting he remains a member of the Labour Party despite coalition participation.
Dr. Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, reaffirmed Obi’s long-declared position to coalition leaders.
Tanko said, “Our principal clearly stated he joined the coalition, but he remains a Labour man till 2027 elections.”
He emphasized Obi’s deliberate and calculated decisions, adding he wouldn’t jump ship under pressure or political provocation.
Meanwhile, Abdullahi reiterated that both Obi and El-Rufai received temporary waivers to protect their grassroots support bases.
He explained supporters of both leaders had obtained nomination forms under their current platforms for upcoming 2027 polls.
“For structural stability, we couldn’t force them to defect now. A special concession was granted until after elections,” he added.
