‘Obi or nothing’ slogan hurts ADC’s chances, Abdullahi warns supporters

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has cautioned supporters of its presidential aspirants against divisive politics, warning that slogans such as “Obi or nothing” could damage the party’s chances in the 2027 general election.

The warning follows growing disagreements among supporters of key opposition figures, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, both associated with possible presidential bids on the ADC platform.

The disagreements have largely centred on zoning, with some Obi supporters insisting that the party’s presidential ticket should go to the South, while many Atiku supporters favour an open and competitive process.

Speaking during an interactive X Space session on Saturday, Bolaji Abdullahi, ADC national publicity secretary, urged supporters to rally behind all aspirants and avoid rhetoric that could fracture the party.

Abdullahi said promoting an “either this candidate or nothing” mindset was counterproductive and only served the interests of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu.

According to him, winning the party’s ticket alone is meaningless without unity and broad support needed to secure victory at the general election.

He added that the ADC would intensify efforts to strengthen internal cohesion and ensure its leaders speak with one voice, stressing that all aspirants are qualified and deserving of respect.

Abdullahi warned that the “Obi or nothing” slogan could alienate potential supporters across the country, recalling earlier appeals by Atiku Abubakar for opposition supporters to stop trading insults that only benefit the APC.