No One Can Hold Nigerians to Ransom, Says Sheikh Gumi as Peter Obi Defects to ADC

No One Can Hold Nigerians to Ransom, Says Sheikh Gumi as Peter Obi Defects to ADC

Controversial Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has reacted to the defection of Peter Obi to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), saying no individual or political group can hold Nigerians to ransom ahead of the 2027 general election.

Gumi urged politicians across party lines to listen to the cries of Nigerians and act in the national interest, noting that the country’s democracy is gradually evolving.

The cleric made the remarks after Peter Obi, the former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, officially announced his defection to the ADC in Enugu on Wednesday, declaring that his decision was driven by a desire to rescue and transform Nigeria ahead of 2027.

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Reacting to the development, Gumi shared a news report of Obi’s defection on his Facebook page, describing the move as a reflection of Nigeria’s growing democratic maturity.

“Nigerian democracy is maturing,” Gumi wrote.
“Politicians should listen to the people’s cry and do the right thing. Time is fast approaching; no one can hold Nigerians to ransom.”

Obi’s defection has continued to generate mixed reactions across the political space, with supporters describing it as a strategic step towards building a strong opposition coalition, while critics view it as a realignment that could reshape the contest for power ahead of the 2027 polls.

Political analysts say the move underscores shifting alliances within Nigeria’s opposition and signals heightened political activity as preparations for the next presidential election gather momentum.

No One Can Hold Nigerians to Ransom, Says Sheikh Gumi as Peter Obi Defects to ADC