Leading political figures from across Nigeria’s South-East have intensified efforts to consolidate the region’s participation in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), as part of a broader strategy to strengthen opposition collaboration ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The renewed political engagement follows a historic gathering held on December 31 in Enugu, where prominent leaders, intellectuals, and stakeholders from across Igboland convened to deliberate on the region’s political direction. The meeting resolved to encourage Igbo leaders and citizens to align with the ADC, which participants described as a credible platform for political renewal and responsible governance.
The Enugu meeting attracted an array of influential personalities across the South-East. Among those present were former Enugu State Governor Chief Okwesilieze Nwodo and Hon. Gilbert Nnaji from Enugu State. Imo State was represented by former Governor Hon. Emeka Ihedioha and Chief Achike Udenwa. From Abia State, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe and former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Onyema Ugochukwu, were in attendance. Anambra State was also well represented by notable figures including Senators Ben Ndi Obi, Victor Umeh, and Tony Nwoye, alongside several members of the National Assembly and various State Houses of Assembly.
Observers noted that the wide representation underscored a growing consensus among South-East political stakeholders on the need for unity and strategic cooperation in addressing Nigeria’s governance challenges.
The momentum continued on March 8 in Awka, Anambra State, where the ADC formally flagged off its membership validation and registration exercise. The event drew significant participation from political leaders and party stakeholders, including two serving senators, five members of the National Assembly, six members of State Houses of Assembly, and numerous dignitaries from across the region.
Addressing attendees during the event, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, called on opposition parties across Nigeria to work collectively to confront what he described as the growing challenges of bad governance in the country. According to him, the 2027 general election will represent more than a routine political contest.
He emphasized that the election would stand as a defining moment between the Nigerian people and the continuation of poor governance, urging citizens and political actors to unite around the goal of building a more accountable and effective leadership system.
Following the Awka ceremony, the delegation proceeded to Agulu in Anambra State, where Obi personally completed his membership validation in the ADC, encouraging supporters and party members to actively participate in the ongoing registration process.
The development marks another step in the evolving political realignment ahead of the next electoral cycle, as opposition figures across different regions explore new alliances and platforms aimed at reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape.
Obi concluded by reiterating his long-standing message of hope and civic participation, noting that meaningful change in Nigeria will only be possible through collective engagement by citizens committed to building a better nation.
“The journey toward a New Nigeria that is possible continues,” he said.
