ADC emerges as the new platform for Obidient movement
Kenneth Okonkwo, a prominent actor and former spokesperson for the Obi-Datti Presidential Campaign Council, has ignited a fresh political debate by declaring that any supporter of Peter Obi who has not joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is “disobedient.”
Speaking on Friday, January 2, 2026, Okonkwo asserted that the ADC is now the official vehicle for the Obidient movement as it prepares for the 2027 general elections. This statement follows his own recent election into the National Working Committee (NWC) of the ADC, signaling a definitive shift away from the Labour Party (LP).
The veteran actor explained that the “Obidient” identity is tied to the vision and leadership of Peter Obi, not a specific party logo. He argued that since Obi has officially transitioned to the ADC to escape internal crises within the Labour Party, loyal followers must follow suit to maintain the movement’s integrity. Okonkwo’s comments come at a time of significant political realignment, with the ADC positioning itself as the primary opposition coalition platform.
According to reports, the move to the ADC is part of a broader “national rescue mission” aimed at providing a structured and unified front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Okonkwo criticized those still clinging to the Labour Party structure, describing them as obstacles to the movement’s progress. He maintained that the ADC offers a more transparent and democratic framework for the 2027 ambitions of the Obidient faithful.
Peter Obi officially defects to ADC ahead of 2027
The backdrop to Okonkwo’s viral statement is the official defection of Peter Obi from the Labour Party to the African Democratic Congress. In a landmark event held in Enugu on New Year’s Day, Obi announced his departure from the LP, citing the need to bypass persistent internal party disputes. He vowed to resist any attempts to rig the 2027 elections and called for a coordinated push for accountability in the Nigerian electoral process.
The defection has triggered a wave of cross-party movements, with several high-profile politicians, including former Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha and Senator Victor Umeh, appearing alongside Obi at ADC events. The ADC leadership, now featuring former Senate President David Mark as National Chairman, has welcomed these new members as part of a grand coalition. This realignment is seen as an attempt to institutionalize the “organic support” that Obi garnered during the 2023 polls.
Kenneth Okonkwo emphasized that this transition was necessary to protect the “Obidient” brand from being “sabotaged” by those within the Labour Party leadership. He noted that the ADC’s structure in regions like the South-East is being revitalized to serve as a fortress for the movement. For Okonkwo, the move is not just about a change of platform but about refining the strategy for “absolute victory” in the next election cycle.
Internal friction and the “disobedient” tag
The use of the term “disobedient” by Okonkwo has drawn mixed reactions from the wider political community and Obi’s supporters. While some loyalists have embraced the transition to the ADC, others remain hesitant to abandon the Labour Party identity that became synonymous with their struggle in 2023. Critics argue that Okonkwo’s rhetoric could alienate supporters who are not yet ready to migrate to a new political entity.
However, Okonkwo remains firm, stating that loyalty to the cause means loyalty to the leader’s chosen path. He pointed out that Peter Obi himself warned that the opposition would no longer be passive and that 2026 would be a year of intense preparation. By labeling those outside the ADC as “disobedient,” Okonkwo is essentially issuing a call for total consolidation within the new party structure.
This development highlights the growing tension between the “organic” nature of the Obidient movement and the “institutional” requirements of Nigerian electoral politics. As the ADC prepares for its first major tests in the coming year, the unity of its new members will be critical. Okonkwo’s outspoken stance serves as a reminder that the path to 2027 will be marked by bold declarations and significant shifts in allegiance.
