The Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Abia State, Don Norman Obinna, has issued a strategic call to action for supporters of Peter Obi, warning that the former Labour Party leader’s presidential aspirations in his new party may hinge entirely on membership numbers.
Speaking on Saturday as a special guest at the inauguration of the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM) executive members for Ikwuano, Umuahia North, and Umuahia South LGAs, Obinna emphasized that “wishing” for a presidency is insufficient without the structural data to back it. He urged party members and the broader “Obidient” movement in the South-East to prioritize the ongoing ADC online e-registration process.
Obinna expressed concern over current registration statistics within the party. He revealed that while membership figures in Adamawa State are currently approaching the one-million mark, Abia State—a traditional stronghold for the Obi movement—has recorded only 400,000 registrations so far.
“It is not just about wanting Peter Obi to be President; the question should be how do we deliver him,” Obinna said. “If the primary election is conducted today, will Peter Obi win? That is my question.”
The Chairman noted that in a primary election scenario, regional registration density is a critical factor in determining a candidate’s success. He argued that unless supporters in the South-East bridge the gap between their vocal support and formal party registration, the former governor could face a disadvantage during the ADC’s presidential primary.
Since Obi’s high-profile defection from the Labour Party to the ADC in late 2025, the party has seen a surge in national interest, particularly with the appointment of veterans like Senator David Mark as National Chairman. However, Obinna warned that the enthusiasm must be translated into a digital footprint to ensure electoral viability within the party’s internal structures.
Also in attendance were the Abia State Chairman of COPDEM, Prince Solomon, and House of Representatives aspirant Ogbonna Abarikwu. Both leaders echoed Obinna’s sentiments, charging Nigerians to reject lackluster leadership by participating actively in political organization and sensitization ahead of the 2027 polls.
