Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi has publicly explained his decision to leave the Labour Party — the platform on which he contested Nigeria’s 2023 presidential election — saying he parted ways after learning that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would not recognise any leadership of the party while he remained within its ranks.
Obi’s departure was formalised on December 31, 2025, when he defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), ending his association with the Labour Party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The move has triggered mixed reactions across the political landscape, with some saying it fractures Labour’s opposition strength, while others see it as reshaping alliances ahead of upcoming polls.
Labour Party figures have downplayed the impact of his exit, asserting that the party will continue without Obi, and key members such as Abia State Governor Alex Otti have said they will remain within Labour.
