ADC will collapse if Obi is denied Presidential ticket — Fayose

Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has warned that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) risks political irrelevance if Peter Obi fails to secure the party’s presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Fayose made the assertion while speaking to Channels Television on the sidelines of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Convention in Abuja.

According to him, Obi’s influence was a decisive factor in the 2023 general elections, but he expressed doubts that the same momentum could be replicated in the next electoral cycle.

“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,” Fayose said.

He further suggested that internal party dynamics could favour other political heavyweights, noting that Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has returned to the fold, while Atiku Abubakar is also expected to clinch the PDP ticket.

Fayose questioned the possibility of Obi accepting a vice-presidential slot, asking, “Will Obi go back to be a vice presidential candidate?”

The former governor also dismissed speculation that Obi could return to the Labour Party, insisting that internal divisions make such a move unlikely.

“That is impossible; there is a wedge everywhere. Obi is a good, fantastic guy, but to become president at this time is difficult,” he added.

Reflecting on the 2023 elections, Fayose argued that Obi’s performance was driven more by personal appeal than party strength.

“PDP is not Obi. Obi did not ride on the strength of his party. If Obi goes to Accord now, he will still make an impact. We are talking about a person,” he said.

Meanwhile, over 2,000 delegates from across the country converged in Abuja for the PDP National Convention, organised by the Abdulrahman Mohammed-led caretaker committee.

Despite reports that a faction loyal to Tanimu Turaki may boycott the exercise, party officials expressed optimism about reconciliation efforts.

Chairman of the convention planning committee and former Abia State governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, disclosed that 2,503 delegates were expected to participate in the event.

He assured that dialogue would continue to address internal disputes within the PDP, even as proceedings went on at the venue, which was adorned with the party’s colours and symbols.

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