Fresh divisions have emerged within Nigeria’s opposition political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, as African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain Kenneth Okonkwo has publicly accused former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi of avoiding free and fair primary elections.
Speaking during an interview on ARISE News on Wednesday, Okonkwo claimed that Obi’s recent departure from the ADC was not driven by ideological differences or internal party challenges, as previously stated, but rather by a longstanding reluctance to participate in transparent electoral contests.
“Peter Obi is afraid of free and fair primary elections,” Okonkwo said. “He gave reasons of challenges within the party, but his main reason is that he does not want to face the primary election.”
The ADC leader further alleged that Obi has a history of relying on political negotiations and behind-the-scenes arrangements instead of competing in open primaries throughout his career. “He has never been in one, and he will not be in one until he finishes his political career,” Okonkwo stated.
As evidence, Okonkwo referenced Obi’s emergence as Governor of Anambra State under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), claiming that Obi initially lost the party’s primary election before party leaders intervened to overturn the result and award him the ticket.
The allegations come amid growing discussions about internal democracy within political parties as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections. Okonkwo’s comments have drawn attention to questions surrounding the processes through which parties select their candidates, and whether open, competitive primaries are being fully implemented across the political spectrum.