Former Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose, has warned that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) could face collapse ahead of the 2027 presidential election if Peter Obi fails to secure the party’s ticket.
Fayose made the remark while speaking to Channels Television on the sidelines of the national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja, where he assessed evolving political alignments ahead of the next general elections.
“If Obi is not on the ballot of ADC, that is the end of ADC. It looks like that now that Obi will not (be on the ballot),” he said.
Despite his position, Fayose described Obi as a “fantastic” individual and acknowledged his influence in the 2023 elections, though he expressed doubts about his chances of winning the presidency in 2027.
“Obi is a good, fantastic guy, but to become president at this time is difficult,” he added.
Fayose also pointed to internal dynamics within opposition parties, suggesting they could limit Obi’s political options. He questioned whether Obi would be willing to accept a vice-presidential slot, particularly amid shifting alliances involving key political figures such as Rabiu Kwankwaso and Atiku Abubakar.
“Today, Kwankwaso has returned to the party. Atiku will get the ticket. Will Obi go back to be a vice presidential candidate?” Fayose queried.
He further ruled out the possibility of Obi returning to the Labour Party, citing internal divisions within the party.
“That is impossible; there is a wedge everywhere,” he said.
Reflecting on the 2023 elections, Fayose argued that Obi’s performance was largely driven by personal appeal rather than party structure.
“PDP is not Obi. Obi did not ride on the strength of his party,” he stated, adding that Obi could still make significant impact regardless of the platform he chooses.
Meanwhile, the PDP National Convention is ongoing in Abuja, with over 2,000 delegates in attendance. Chairman of the convention planning committee, Okezie Ikpeazu, disclosed that 2,503 delegates were expected, noting that reconciliation efforts would continue despite internal disagreements within the party.
