Former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose has described former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi as a key political figure to watch ahead of the 2027 elections, noting that his defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has given the party more relevance.
Fayose made the comments in an interview with Arise News while discussing the state of opposition politics, the Peoples Democratic Party’s internal struggles, and the rising influence of other political platforms.
Speaking on why the PDP has lost its dominant position, Fayose placed the blame on internal weaknesses rather than the ruling All Progressives Congress, Arise News reported on Monday.
“You must be very honest. When you are weak, tendencies are there for you to fall to the right of the stronger side,” he said.
He refuted claims that the party’s woes were linked to President Bola Tinubu, adding, “The challenges in the PDP—it’s not the fault of Asiwaju, the president.
“No. The failure in my home—God forbid—is not the fault of my neighbor.”
Fayose described the PDP as a divided institution, stating, “The concerns are quite evident. “The PDP is a house divided against itself.”
Turning to the broader opposition situation, Fayose stated that Nigeria typically has two main parties at any given moment, citing the African Democratic Congress in light of Peter Obi’s reported move.
“Are we saying ADC is not dominant? Recently, He moved there. And I’ve said it. He is the only life in ADC,” he said.
When Abati noted that other figures, including Atiku Abubakar, are associated with the party, Fayose responded, “I’m not saying they are not human beings; I’m saying they are largely spent forces.”
Fayose stressed Obi’s unique political weight: “Let Obi not go to ADC. Let Obi go to another party. Let’s say Obi is in Accord.
“Obi is the only traction. Obi is the only meaning, Obi is the only factor, and Obi is the only person in ADC that matters.”
The former Ekiti State governor also mentioned that Obi’s presence alone has shifted the party’s relevance, “And if Obi had not gone to ADC, I’m not saying he will win this election.
“I’m not saying he will not win this election.
“But I’m telling you, even if you don’t feed Obi, if ADC fails to feed Obi, their case will be worse than their coming together.”
