A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kenneth Okonkwo, has called on supporters of former Anambra State governor, Mr. Peter Obi, to formally register with the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Okonkwo made the appeal on Friday while speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, following Obi’s recent move to the ADC as part of an opposition coalition.
He said Obi has clearly asked his followers to join the ADC, adding that supporters who refuse to do so should no longer describe themselves as “Obidients”.
According to Okonkwo, Obi’s new position corrects what he described as a past political error.
“When I was in the Labour Party, I said it was a strategic mistake to tell supporters they could belong to different parties,” he said. “I am happy that Peter Obi has now changed that approach.”
He referred to an interview Obi granted on X Space, where the former governor reportedly asked his supporters to register as ADC members.
“He said all Obidients should go and register with the ADC. If you claim to be an Obidient and you are not in the ADC, then you are not being loyal,” Okonkwo stated.
The lawyer, who is also a member of the ADC National Working Committee, said the party is founded on strong democratic principles. He explained that anyone joining the ADC must accept internal democracy as a core value.
“The ADC is open to everyone, but you must believe in democracy,” he said. “We will not compromise our internal democratic process.”
Okonkwo added that the party rejected conditional entry in order to build discipline and unity.
“No leader was allowed to place conditions before joining,” he said. “We want a solid foundation, and that is why people took their time before coming into the ADC.”
He also said that the South-East region is now fully aligned with the ADC, warning that politicians from the zone who choose other parties are indirectly helping the ruling party.
“Today, the South-East has moved to the ADC,” Okonkwo said. “Anyone from the region who is not in the ADC and chooses another party is working for the government in power.”
On the 2027 presidential race, Okonkwo said the ADC has not yet decided on zoning its ticket. However, he assured party members of his support for whoever emerges as the party’s candidate.
“Peter Obi is now an ADC member, and we work with all our members,” he said. “Whoever wins the ADC presidential primary, I will fully support that person.”
