The Director-General of Big TENT Nigeria, Ibrahim Abdulkareem, has explained the rationale behind former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi’s interest in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Abdulkareem made the clarification during an interview on Prime Time, a programme aired on Arise Television.
He said Obi is not demanding the ADC ticket as a formality or entitlement but is driven by a broader vision to unite Nigerians and offer a credible alternative to what he described as the growing threat of a one-party state.
According to him, Obi has been part of the ADC coalition from the very beginning and clearly outlined his conditions for participation.
“Peter Obi did not just wake up and join the ADC. He has been part of the ADC from day one, and he made his position very clear,” Abdulkareem said.
He explained that Obi insisted the coalition must go beyond power acquisition and focus on building a functional system that delivers good governance to Nigerians.
“He said he would only be part of the coalition if it is not just about grabbing power and handing it over to someone, but about coming together to build a system that truly works for Nigeria, something Nigerians have been yearning for,” he added.
Abdulkareem also noted that Obi took a step rarely seen among Nigerian politicians by consulting extensively with his supporters, popularly known as the Obidients, before fully aligning with the ADC.
He stressed that at no point has Obi asked anyone to hand him the ADC ticket without a transparent process.
“There is no forum anywhere where Peter Obi is asking for the ADC ticket on a platter of gold,” Abdulkareem said.
“What he has consistently emphasized is the need to build unity, listen to Nigerians, and give young people hope for a better country and a new Nigeria.”
He concluded that Obi’s approach reflects a commitment to inclusive leadership and national renewal rather than personal ambition.
