Presidency to Peter Obi: Stop Blaming Tinubu Over ADC Crisis

The Presidency has cautioned former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, against what it described as unfair criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the internal crisis rocking the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In a statement issued on Monday, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the challenges within the ADC are self-inflicted and not linked to the presidency.
Onanuga accused Obi of failing to demonstrate leadership within his former party, the Labour Party, alleging that he abandoned it after the 2023 elections without resolving its internal disputes.
According to him, Obi’s reliance on the “Obidient” movement, which he described as more active online than politically structured, has not translated into a viable platform for future elections.
The presidential aide further claimed that Obi’s move to align with the ADC was driven by his need for a political structure ahead of the 2027 elections, but argued that the party’s current turmoil stems from internal issues rather than external interference.
“What connection does President Tinubu have with all this? Absolutely none,” Onanuga said, dismissing claims that the presidency played any role in the ADC crisis.
He urged Obi and his team to focus on resolving internal party challenges instead of “blackmailing” the president, adding that such accusations were baseless and unfair.
Onanuga also noted that Obi’s third-place finish in the 2023 presidential election does not guarantee similar performance in 2027, stressing that electoral success depends on strong political organization and strategy.
He maintained that President Tinubu remains focused on governance and has achievements to present to Nigerians, while advising Obi to first secure a legitimate political platform before making allegations.
The statement underscores growing political tension ahead of the 2027 general elections, as key actors position themselves within Nigeria’s evolving party landscape.