Defection Plot: Group Accuses Obi, Kwankwaso Allies Of Backing APC Agenda

The Grassroots Mobilisation Network (GMN), a support group of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has warned that any leader who exits the party at this critical stage risks being perceived as a “political contractor” working in the interest of the ruling government.

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In a statement issued Sunday in Abuja, the group’s National Secretary, Usman Bala Idris, said ongoing talks of possible defections by Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso raise serious concerns about loyalty within the opposition ranks.

Reports suggest both figures may be considering a joint presidential bid under the National Democratic Congress (NDC), a development Idris described as troubling.

He noted that neither Obi nor Kwankwaso acknowledged the ADC leadership following its recent legal victory at the Supreme Court, which he interpreted as a sign of disengagement from the party.

According to him, the party’s internal challenges should not be used as justification for defection, insisting that aspirants must be prepared to compete through established democratic processes rather than seek what he termed “automatic tickets.”

“No one has ever emerged president of Nigeria without going through a primary election, including the current president,” Idris stated, referring to Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He further alleged that the crisis within the ADC was externally induced, accusing the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of destabilising opposition parties.

“The APC has planted landmines across opposition platforms. Moving from one party to another will not solve the problem,” he said, urging party leaders to remain united.

Idris dismissed claims that ongoing legal disputes within the ADC justify an exit, maintaining that collective effort is required to resolve internal issues.

“The appropriate response is to stay and rebuild, not abandon the structure,” he said.

He added that speculation surrounding the possible exit of Obi and Kwankwaso suggests a broader agenda aimed at weakening the ADC from within.

“Their departure, if it happens, will not shake the party. ADC remains intact and continues to grow,” he asserted.

Idris also made a veiled allegation against a former president from the South-West, claiming the individual was influencing ongoing defection talks due to personal political interests tied to the ruling party.

On the reported NDC platform, he questioned its legitimacy, arguing that the party lacks proper recognition by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“How can a party not duly registered by INEC expect to appear on the ballot?” he queried.

The GMN maintained that defections at this point would ultimately benefit the APC and undermine opposition cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The statement comes amid intensifying realignment discussions within opposition circles and lingering leadership disputes within the ADC.