The Director-General of Big TENT Nigeria, Ibrahim Abdulkareem, has explained why former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, is aligning with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), insisting that the former Anambra State governor is not seeking the party’s presidential ticket by entitlement.
Abdulkareem made the clarification while speaking on Prime Time, a programme on Arise Television, on Wednesday.
According to him, Obi’s involvement with the ADC is rooted in a long-standing commitment to building a credible political coalition aimed at national unity and effective governance, rather than a desperate quest for power.
He noted that Obi has been part of the ADC coalition from the onset and clearly stated that his interest lies in creating a political system that genuinely works for Nigerians.
“Peter Obi didn’t just come out and join the ADC. He was part of the ADC from the first day, and he made it very clear for everybody that wants to hear,” Abdulkareem said.
He explained that Obi had insisted the coalition must go beyond merely seizing power, stressing the need to establish a governance framework capable of addressing Nigerians’ long-standing demand for good and accountable leadership.
Abdulkareem further revealed that Obi took the uncommon step of consulting widely with his supporters, known as the Obidients, before fully committing to the ADC.
“What he has done is something none of these people, including President Bola Tinubu, has done. Before fully declaring for the ADC, he spoke to the Obidients,” he added.
He dismissed claims that Obi was lobbying for the ADC presidential ticket, stating that at no point had the former Labour Party candidate asked for the ticket to be handed to him without due process.
“Nobody anywhere has heard Peter Obi asking to be given the ADC ticket on a platter of gold,” Abdulkareem said.
He concluded that Obi’s approach reflects his desire to unite the country and offer young Nigerians renewed hope for a better and more inclusive Nigeria, particularly at a time when concerns about a one-party state are growing.
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