A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kenneth Okonkwo, has called on supporters of former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to formally register as members of the ADC ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, the lawyer and actor made it clear that mere online support or ideological sympathy was no longer enough, insisting that true loyalty must now be demonstrated through formal party membership.
Okonkwo argued that Obi’s political movement needed structure, discipline, and institutional backing if it was to remain relevant and competitive in the coming election cycle.
“When I was in the Labour Party, I said it was a tactical mistake to tell your followers they could join all political parties. I am glad that my brother, Peter Obi, has now changed that tactic,” he said.
According to Okonkwo, Obi has since corrected that approach by directing his supporters to register with the ADC, a move he believes strengthens the opposition and provides a clear political home for the Obidient movement.
He referenced an interview Obi held on X Space, during which the former governor reportedly encouraged his supporters to align themselves formally with the ADC.
“If you are an Obidient and you’re not in the ADC, sorry, you’re not an Obidient, you are a disObidient,” Okonkwo stated.
The outspoken politician praised the ADC as a credible and principled opposition party, describing it as a platform built on integrity, discipline, and democratic values. He also noted that the party enjoys growing influence and acceptance, particularly in the South-East.
“Anybody you see in the ADC is allowed to join on one condition: you must be a true democrat. One thing the ADC will not compromise on is internal democracy and adherence to democratic principles,” Okonkwo said.
He stressed that the party does not permit godfatherism or political imposition, adding that no leader or opposition figure is allowed to dictate terms before joining.
According to him, discipline and a solid democratic foundation remain non-negotiable pillars of the ADC’s ideology.
“Now, the South-East has gone ADC, as I said they would. Any politician who is not in the ADC and is working with another party is working for Tinubu,” he added.
Okonkwo also welcomed Peter Obi’s defection to the ADC, describing it as a positive development for the opposition bloc. He reassured party members and supporters that personal interests would not override party unity ahead of 2027.
He further stated that the ADC is yet to make a final decision on zoning its presidential ticket, noting that the party remains focused on fairness and internal democracy.
“He is an ADC member, and we work with every ADC member. Rest assured, whoever emerges as the presidential candidate of the ADC, I will work for the person. I don’t have any personal rift with anyone,” Okonkwo said.
His remarks underscore growing efforts within the ADC to consolidate opposition forces and transform grassroots enthusiasm into a structured political movement capable of challenging the ruling party in the next general elections.
