A senior member of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Dr Ladan Salihu, has urged political economist Professor Pat Utomi and supporters of former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, popularly known as Obidients, to exercise patience as discussions continue around the party’s plans for the 2027 presidential election.
Salihu made the call while responding to recent remarks credited to Utomi, who reportedly said he would withdraw his support for Obi if the former governor accepted a vice presidential position within the emerging opposition coalition after moving to the ADC.
Speaking on Arise Television’s programme, The Morning Show, on Friday, Salihu said such comments were premature and could distract the party from its immediate responsibilities.
He said Utomi’s reaction was rushed and advised all stakeholders to remain calm and focused on building the party rather than engaging in early debates over who would emerge as the presidential candidate.
According to him, the ADC is currently more concerned with strengthening its internal structure and positioning itself as a strong opposition platform ahead of future elections.
He explained that the party is focused on recruiting new members, organizing its structures, and clearly defining how it intends to function as a major opposition force in Nigeria’s political space.
Salihu stressed that discussions about the 2027 presidential ticket should not take priority at this stage, adding that the party needs time to grow and properly present itself to Nigerians across the country.
He noted that efforts should be directed towards expanding the party’s reach, promoting its message, and engaging citizens in both urban and rural areas.
Reacting to calls by some Obidients insisting that Peter Obi must automatically emerge as the ADC’s presidential candidate, Salihu warned against joining a political party with fixed conditions.
He said political participation should be open and competitive, not based on demands or ultimatums.
Salihu explained that party members are expected to test their popularity through established democratic processes, where aspirants present themselves to party delegates who ultimately decide.
He further cautioned that a win at all costs mindset is against democratic principles and could weaken the broader goal of building a united opposition.
According to him, insisting that only one outcome is acceptable in any political party is undemocratic and harmful to collective progress.