The coalition between former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC) may significantly alter Imo State’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 Imo governorship election.
The ADC, long considered a fringe party, could evolve into a formidable third force, challenging the dominance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and reshaping the dynamics of the upcoming 2027 general elections in the country.
Atiku and Obi’s combined votes in the 2023 presidential election surpassed those of APC’s Bola Tinubu, highlighting the potential strength of their collaboration. The coalition is not just a bid to unify the opposition but also a direct challenge to Tinubu’s anticipated re-election bid.
The Labour Party (LP) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have both been plagued by leadership crises, leaving a void for a more cohesive and structured opposition.
In Imo State, the ADC may emerge as a refuge for aggrieved politicians, particularly those sidelined in the PDP under Samuel Anyanwu’s control. If the Coalition works, the party will be positioning itself as a credible alternative to the APC and PDP.
Among the prominent figures expected to join the coalition in the State is, former Imo State Governor Emeka Ihedioha, who left the PDP in 2023 due to irreconcilable differences. Ihedioha’s recent engagements with Atiku and Obi, including their presence at his 60th birthday celebration, underscore his alignment with the coalition’s goals. His political group, “The Rebuild Imo,” would bring substantial organizational strength to the ADC.
Former Labour Party governorship candidate in Imo, Athan Achonu, is also likely to follow Peter Obi to the ADC if the coalition materializes. Achonu’s close ties with Obi within the Labour Party and his influence over the “Obidient” movement in Imo State suggest a significant boost in support for the ADC. Thousands of Obi’s supporters in Imo could also make a switch.
Speculations are also rife that former Imo State Governor Achike Udenwa may also join the ADC. Udenwa, recently vocal about the internal crisis plaguing the PDP, was part of Atiku Abubakar’s delegation that met with former President Muhammadu Buhari to discuss coalition talks. His inclusion would add gravitas to the ADC’s push for relevance in Imo.
Also, Mazi Chima Amadi, a philanthropist with aspirations for the 2027 Imo governorship, may consider joining the ADC. Amadi currently lacks a political platform and could leverage the coalition to propel his ambition, bringing with him the network and goodwill established through his organization, “The Mazi Organization.”
It remains unclear if aggrieved politicians within the Imo APC will join the new coalition. However, should they defect, the ADC’s capacity to challenge both the APC and PDP would grow exponentially, solidifying its position as a major political force in the state.
For Governor Hope Uzodimma, analysts contend that the emergence of a strengthened ADC coalition presents a significant challenge. As Imo State prepares for the 2027 gubernatorial race to select his successor, the ADC’s consolidation could redefine the electoral battleground, making the contest highly competitive.
