A former Governor of Imo State, Emeka Ihedioha, has declared that the exit of Peter Obi from the African Democratic Congress will not weaken the party or derail the coalition movement being championed by opposition figures ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Ihedioha made this known on Wednesday through a statement posted on his verified social media handles, insisting that he remains committed to the ADC despite Obi’s recent defection to the Nigeria Democratic Congress.

Obi had on Sunday announced his departure from the ADC alongside former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, a move that has continued to generate reactions within opposition circles.

Reacting to the development, Ihedioha said he and other political stakeholders had spent months building a coalition platform within the ADC with the objective of providing credible leadership and good governance for Nigerians.

According to him, the coalition project remains focused and intact despite the departure of some prominent figures.

He stated, “Over the last year, we have consciously and consistently worked to build a coalition of well-meaning Nigerians under the platform of the African Democratic Congress.

“Our objective has always been to provide good governance, strengthen democratic accountability and build a Nigeria that works for every citizen regardless of ethnicity, religion or political affiliation.”

The former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives noted that although he would have preferred Obi to continue his political ambition within the ADC, he respects his decision to pursue another political path.

“On Sunday, May 3, 2026, my brother, His Excellency Peter Obi, decided to move to the Nigeria Democratic Congress in pursuit of his political aspiration.

“While I would have preferred that this ambition be pursued within the ADC, democracy gives every leader the right to make political choices guided by conviction. I respect his decision and wish him well,” he added.

Ihedioha further stressed that the shared aspiration among opposition leaders for a united, prosperous and inclusive Nigeria transcends political parties, adding that the coalition movement remains committed to national development and democratic progress ahead of 2027.