Former vice president Atiku Abubakar on Tuesday welcomed the formal entry of ex-presidential candidate Peter Obi into the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the move as a milestone in efforts to build a strong opposition bloc ahead of future elections.
In a statement marking Obi’s declaration, Atiku said the development represented “a significant moment in the history of political coalitions” in Nigeria, as key opposition figures seek to realign forces outside the ruling party.
“It is my pleasure to welcome him officially, as we look forward to a robust working relationship that will foster a virile opposition,” Atiku said, adding that such cooperation was aimed at forming “a government capable of bringing prosperity and peace to our people.”
The former vice president framed the ADC as an emerging rallying platform, using railway imagery to urge wider participation. He said the coalition’s momentum, launched from Enugu in the country’s southeast, should encourage like-minded Nigerians to join the movement nationwide.
“As the ADC Coalition train leaves Enugu, the capital of the Southeast region, I hope this inspires other patriots to join the cause with the train headed in their direction,” Atiku said.
Peter Obi, a former governor of Anambra State and a prominent opposition figure, has not yet issued a separate statement on the declaration. His decision to align with the ADC, however, is expected to reshape opposition calculations as political actors position themselves ahead of the next electoral cycle.
The ADC has been pushing to present itself as a unifying platform for opposition leaders, amid growing calls for coalition-building to challenge the dominance of the ruling party.
