2027: ‘Peter Obi or Nothing’ — Ex-First Lady Draws Battle Lines

Former First Lady of Ondo State, Mrs. Betty Anyawu-Akeredolu, has publicly expressed her support for former Anambra State governor Peter Obi to be the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which is backed by a coalition.

This announcement was made in a post on her verified X account on Friday, where she emphasized her stance by stating, “Obi or nothing.”

Her statement comes amid ongoing discussions and debates among members of the Obidient Movement and supporters of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar regarding who should secure the ADC’s presidential nomination ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Since Peter Obi joined the ADC, his supporters have been vocal in urging the party to zone its presidential ticket to the South and to endorse him as their candidate.

In response to the growing tensions, the leadership of the ADC has advised supporters of various aspirants to refrain from actions that could foster division within the party as they approach the June primaries.

The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, issued the warning during a live audio conversation on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday in Abuja.

Abdullahi urged party supporters to avoid what he described as “preaching division and exceptionality” within the coalition.

He also spoke on the proposal for the 2027 general elections to be conducted in 2026, describing such a development as a “double-edged sword” for the party.

According to him, an early election could pose internal challenges for the ADC, particularly in managing post-primary grievances.

He said the party could struggle to heal internal wounds if the election timetable is brought forward.

However, Abdullahi noted that an early poll could also favour the ADC, arguing that many Nigerians were dissatisfied with the performance of the current administration.

The ADC spokesperson further disclosed that he had held engagements with key figures in the opposition coalition, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, and former governors Rotimi Amaechi and Nasir El-Rufai.

He said the discussions centred on the need to strengthen unity within the party ahead of the next general elections.