Rivers LP Faction Joins ADC Following Peter Obi’s Defection
Port Harcourt, Rivers State – The faction of the Labour Party (LP) in Rivers State loyal to former presidential candidate Peter Obi has defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), signaling a realignment of opposition forces ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The decision comes just two weeks after Obi formally joined the ADC, a party that has continued to attract support amid growing public dissatisfaction with Nigeria’s economic and political challenges.
Leading the move was Gogo Wellington, former Rivers State Chairman of the LP faction and Secretary of the Obidient Movement in the state, along with members of the Obidient Movement across all 23 local government areas.
“Following Our Leader” – Gogo Wellington Speaks
Addressing journalists and party stakeholders in Port Harcourt on Monday, Wellington said the defection was inevitable following Obi’s exit from the Labour Party.
“The exit of our principal from the Labour Party marks the end of our sojourn in the party. We are therefore moving with our structure within the Labour Party and the Obidient Movement to join our leader, His Excellency Peter Gregory Obi, in the Africa Democratic Congress,” Wellington said.
He described Obi as a credible figure capable of steering Nigeria out of its socio-economic crisis, citing worsening insecurity, a declining standard of living, and neglect of constitutional provisions as urgent reasons for forming a united political coalition.
Frustration Over Economic Hardship Fuels Political Realignment
Dr. Sofiri Peterside, Rivers State Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, said the move reflects widespread frustration among Nigerians over deteriorating living conditions.
“We belong to a country with plenty but little to feast on. Social amenities and healthcare should be a right, yet power and resources are concentrated in very few hands. That is why we are standing with this man [Obi]. He may not be a saint, but he is leading with the interests of the common man at heart,” Peterside said.
ADC Welcomes New Members, Strengthens Opposition Front
Receiving the defectors, Rivers State ADC Chairman Leader Sampson assured full integration and equal participation within the party’s structures.
“We welcome the Labour Party faction and the Obidient Movement into the ADC. Everybody in this coalition has equal rights. By 2027, we are not here for a joke. We are building a stronger party to rescue Rivers State and Nigeria,” Sampson said.
Political analysts view the defection as a strategic boost for the ADC, positioning it as a growing opposition platform and potential major challenger to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.
