Former Imo State Governor and ex-Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, has said he will remain in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) despite his ally Peter Obi’s recent defection to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
In a statement on May 7, 2026, Ihedioha said he had spent the past year working to build a coalition of Nigerians under the ADC with the goal of delivering accountable, inclusive, and prosperous governance.
On Sunday, May 3, 2026, Obi announced his move to the NDC to pursue his political ambitions. While Ihedioha said he would have preferred Obi stayed within the ADC, he acknowledged that every leader has the right to make political choices in a democracy.
“I respect his decision and wish him well,” Ihedioha stated. “We share a common aspiration for a better Nigeria, one that works for all and respects our diversity. This remains our collective goal, one that transcends political platforms.”
Ihedioha, a founding member of the ADC coalition, said the alliance was built through “sacrifice, strategic alignment, and a clear vision for Nigeria’s future.” After 72 hours of consultation and reflection, he concluded there was “no justification to turn my back on the ADC” for now.
“We will continue to work towards the shared vision of a New Nigeria — same objectives, different platforms,” he added.
Obi’s departure has been one of the most significant shifts in the opposition camp ahead of the 2027 general elections, but Ihedioha’s decision to stay signals continuity for the ADC coalition’s structure and agenda.
