ADC, Obi's Allies Battle Over "Broken Promises" Claim as Party Speaks On 2027 Zoning

• ADC denied making any promise on zoning for 2027, dismissing claims of “broken promises” by allies of Peter Obi as misleading
• Obidient Movement’s Yunusa Tanko criticised ADC’s silence on zoning, stressing fairness and inclusivity were key to mobilising support nationwide
• ADC’s Bolaji Abdullahi described Tanko’s remarks as divisive, insisting zoning had not been discussed and only recognised members could shape party decisions

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has denied making any commitment on zoning its presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 elections.

The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the claim of “broken promises” made by allies of former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi was misleading.

“You cannot break any promise you have not made,” Abdullahi told journalists yesterday, stressing that zoning had not been discussed by the ADC leadership.

Obidients press for fairness ahead of 2027

Dr Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidients Movement, had criticised the ADC over its silence on zoning the presidency to the South, Nation

Tanko, whose movement supports Obi’s presidential ambition, warned that issues of equity and fairness must guide the party’s decisions.

“As the Obidient Movement, being part of the main consulting bloc, we are particularly concerned about how the party intends to zone its presidential ticket,” Tanko said.

“Considering that the presidency is currently held by the South, issues of fairness and inclusivity will enable us to mobilise effectively across the country,” he added.

ADC dismisses Obi ally’s claim of 'faile promises'

In response, Abdullahi described Tanko’s remarks as “highly divisive and destabilising,” arguing that they did not reflect the position of Peter Obi.

“ADC leaders have not discussed zoning. Tanko’s view does not reflect Obi’s position,” Abdullahi declared, questioning whether Tanko had consulted Obi before making the statement.

He insisted that only legitimate stakeholders could contribute to such sensitive discussions, adding that Tanko “does not play any role in the coalition.”

ADC urges full commitment

The controversy comes days after the ADC asked all political heavyweights within its caucus to resign from their current parties and formally join the ADC, as reported by Vanguard.

That meeting was attended by leaders such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers state Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai. Obi, however, was absent.

According to Abdullahi, while the ADC may consider concessions in future, it “cannot condone vituperation from those who lack an understanding of the party’s workings.”

ADC issues directive to Obi, el-Rufai, others

Legit.ng earlier reported that the Atiku Abubakar-led coalition has announced that it has no interest in sustaining the registration of the ADA and has settled for the recently adopted ADC.

Bolaji Abdullahi, the spokesperson of the coalition, announced the development at the end of the party leaders' meeting in Abuja on Thursday, September 25.

According to Abdullahi, the party also issued a directive to its members, such as the likes of Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai and others.

Source: Legit.ng