Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has warned that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) could collapse if Peter Obi fails to secure the party’s presidential ticket for the 2027 elections.
Speaking on the sidelines of the PDP National Convention on Sunday in Abuja, Fayose described Obi, the former Anambra State governor, as a “great guy” whose influence played a decisive role in the 2023 elections.
“The Obi factor was crucial in 2023. If he is not on the ADC ballot next year, that could spell the end for the party.
“Now that Kwankwaso has returned and Atiku may get the ticket, will Obi go back as a vice-presidential candidate? That remains uncertain, ” he said.
Fayose also dismissed the idea that Obi could return to the Labour Party (LP).
“That is impossible. There is a wedge everywhere. Obi is a good, fantastic guy, but becoming president at this time is difficult,” he added.
Obi, who left the PDP in May 2022 to join the Labour Party, was its presidential candidate in 2023, finishing behind President Bola Tinubu of the APC and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of the PDP.
He is now among the contenders seeking the ADC presidential ticket for 2027.
Commenting on Obi’s performance in 2023, Fayose stressed the individual appeal of the candidate.
“PDP is not Obi. He did not rely solely on the strength of his party.
”If he moves to another platform like Accord, he could still make an impact, possibly more than ADC. We are talking about the person, not the party,” he said.
The PDP National Convention attracted over 2,000 delegates from across Nigeria.
Organised by the Abdulrahman Mohammed-led caretaker committee, the event proceeded despite indications that the Tanimu Turaki faction might boycott.
Delegates, many wearing PDP-branded uniforms, gathered at the stadium velodrome, while others were cleared through security checkpoints.
The venue was decorated with the party’s colours and symbols, including umbrellas.
Okezie Ikpeazu, former Abia State governor and chairman of the convention planning committee, confirmed that 2,503 delegates were expected.
He also stated that reconciliation talks would continue to resolve the party’s internal disputes despite the absence of some leaders.
