BREAKING: Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso Dump ADC, Appear at NDC Headquarters in Abuja

Abuja – April 23, 2026 – A major shift within Nigeria’s opposition space unfolded on Thursday as former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso formally exited the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Both political heavyweights were seen arriving at the national secretariat of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Abuja alongside a significant number of loyalists, signaling what insiders describe as a calculated political repositioning ahead of the 2027 general elections.

PulseNets learnt that the duo had earlier in the day submitted their resignation letters to the ADC leadership before making their way to the NDC headquarters. Multiple sources who spoke to PulseNets indicated that the coordinated move is part of a broader opposition realignment aimed at consolidating forces against the ruling party.

Internal Crisis Behind ADC Exit

Findings obtained by PulseNets reveal that growing tensions within the ADC played a central role in the defections. Party insiders cited dissatisfaction with the leadership style and internal structure under David Mark, alongside unresolved disputes around zoning arrangements, candidate emergence, and control of party structures.

Sources close to the development told PulseNets that repeated efforts to reconcile factions within the party had failed, leaving key stakeholders disillusioned and prompting the eventual exit of Obi and Kwankwaso.

At the NDC secretariat, Obi was observed engaging supporters, emphasizing that the decision was driven by broader national interest and the need to strengthen opposition cohesion. Kwankwaso, easily identifiable in his signature red cap, was also seen holding discussions with party officials and stakeholders.

Implications for 2027 Political Landscape

The departure of both figures represents a significant setback for the ADC, which had been positioning itself as a formidable opposition platform ahead of the 2027 elections. Analysts say the development could trigger further defections and weaken the party’s national standing.

Political observers who spoke to PulseNets reported that the move may signal either a strategic adoption of the NDC as a new political base or the groundwork for a wider coalition capable of mounting a serious challenge against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the next electoral cycle.

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This latest shift adds another layer of complexity to Nigeria’s evolving opposition dynamics, with multiple blocs continuing to realign in search of a viable pathway to power.

Further updates are expected as both leaders are anticipated to address the media later in the day.