Ihedioha Stays in ADC Despite Peter Obi’s Move to NDC

Former Imo State Governor Emeka Ihedioha has announced his decision to remain in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) despite the defection of Peter Obi to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Ihedioha said extensive consultations and reflections over the past 72 hours informed his decision to stay with the ADC ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The former governor explained that he had spent the last one year working with other coalition members to strengthen the ADC as a platform for national transformation and good governance.

“Over the last one year, we have consciously and consistently worked to build a coalition of well-meaning Nigerians under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC),” he stated.

“Our purpose has been clear, to deliver good governance to the people of Nigeria and to build a nation that is accountable, inclusive, and prosperous.”

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Ihedioha acknowledged Obi’s recent decision to leave the ADC for the NDC, saying although he would have preferred the former Anambra governor to pursue his political ambition within the ADC, he respected his right to make independent political choices.

“While I would have preferred that this ambition was pursued within the ADC, I recognize that in a democracy, every leader has the right to make political choices guided by conviction. I respect his decision and wish him well,” he said.

The former deputy speaker of the House of Representatives stressed that both leaders still share a common vision for a better Nigeria despite belonging to different political platforms.

“We share a common aspiration for a better Nigeria, one that works for all and respects our diversity. This remains our collective goal, one that transcends political platforms,” he added.

Ihedioha described himself as a foundational member of the ADC coalition and said the party’s current position was built through sacrifice, strategic planning and sustained political engagement.

“After due consultation and reflection over the past 72 hours, I have chosen to remain in the African Democratic Congress at this time. I take deliberate political steps, and for now, I find no justification to turn my back on the ADC,” he said.

He maintained that efforts toward achieving a “New Nigeria” would continue despite differing political alignments, declaring: “Same objectives, different platforms.”