Obi’s Exit Pushes Igbo Presidency Ambition Back 20 Years — ADC Chieftain

Obi’s Exit Pushes Igbo Presidency Ambition Back 20 Years — ADC Chieftain

Hon. Kasimu Maigari of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has claimed that the political trajectory of Peter Obi has significantly delayed the Igbo presidency ambition, warning that the Southeast’s chances of producing Nigeria’s president have been pushed back by “about 20 years.”

Speaking on ARISE News, Maigari said his concern goes beyond electoral victory, focusing instead on the long-term political consequences of Obi’s movement on the Southeast’s quest for power at the centre.

According to him, despite Obi’s strong performance in the 2023 elections and his popularity among young voters, the movement has not translated into a unified or sustainable political structure capable of delivering the presidency for the region. He argued that the current direction of Obi’s politics may have weakened the region’s collective bargaining strength ahead of the 2027 elections.

“My worry is not if Peter Obi will win the presidency; my worry is that he has pushed the Igbos 20 years backwards,” Maigari said.

The ADC chieftain further alleged that a significant number of Obi’s supporters are motivated by personal political ambitions rather than a shared ideological goal. He claimed many are positioning themselves to secure elective offices—including state assembly, House of Representatives, and governorship seats—by leveraging Obi’s popularity.

READ ALSO:

• Trump Warns Iran of “Total Destruction” if US Vessels Are Attacked in Strait of Hormuz
• CFAO Mobility Targets Growth, Innovation at 2026 Open Day in Lagos
• EFCC Arraigns Ex-Skye Bank Chairman Over Alleged ₦36bn Misappropriation

Maigari also linked this trend to broader opposition dynamics, noting that politicians are aligning themselves with influential figures like Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso to boost their electoral chances. However, he insisted that such alignments are driven more by strategy than genuine commitment to reform.

He expressed doubt about Obi’s chances in the 2027 presidential race, stating that prevailing political realities make his victory unlikely. Despite this, Maigari said the ADC remains strategically positioned and internally stable, preparing to capitalise on shifting alliances across Nigeria’s political landscape.

Interestingly, he suggested that Obi’s continued influence in key regions could indirectly benefit the ADC by reshaping voting patterns in areas previously dominated by the ruling party under Bola Tinubu.

Political analysts say the comments highlight growing divisions within Nigeria’s opposition, as parties begin early manoeuvring ahead of 2027. While Obi retains a loyal grassroots base, especially among urban youths, questions remain about coalition-building, party structure, and national spread—key factors in winning a presidential election.

The development has also reignited debate around zoning in Nigeria, with many stakeholders insisting that the Southeast deserves a fair shot at the presidency after decades of exclusion.

As the road to 2027 gathers momentum, the future of the Southeast presidency bid may depend on unity among regional leaders, strategic alliances, and the ability to convert popular support into electoral success.

Obi’s Exit Pushes Igbo Presidency Ambition Back 20 Years — ADC Chieftain