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By Oscar Okhifo
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, has criticised Peter Obi over his reported exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), with other Nigerians also raising concerns about what they describe as inconsistency and weak crisis management in his political trajectory.
Reacting via his verified social media platforms, Onanuga described Obi as a “political nomad,” saying, “Peter Obi’s constant movement from one political
platform to another clearly portrays him as a political nomad.”
He warned that such shifts could weaken public trust in his leadership.
“You cannot claim to represent change while frequently changing the vehicle through which that change is to be delivered. It sends a confusing message to the electorate,” he added.
Obi, who flew the flag of the Labour Party in the 2023 presidential election, had in December 2025 indicated interest in aligning with the coalition-backed ADC as part of broader opposition realignments ahead of future elections.
However, indications that he may have stepped away from the party have triggered fresh criticism from some Nigerians, who question whether his political movements reflect an inability to manage internal party challenges.
Concerns have also been raised about Obi’s alliances, with some critics referencing his reported engagements with figures such as Nasir El-Rufai and Abubakar Malami.
One observer said, “What is integrity if you keep jumping from one party to another? Because of desperation, Obi now aligns with people he once strongly criticised.”
Onanuga maintained that frequent defections undermine credibility in politics, stressing that leadership demands stability and clarity of purpose.
“Leadership is about discipline, consistency, and focus. Nigerians deserve leaders who are grounded, not those constantly in search of the next platform,” he said.
While Obi has yet to publicly respond to the latest criticism or clarify his current political position, his movement across parties, from the All Progressive Alliance (APGA) to People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the Labour Party (LP) and later his association with the ADC, continues to generate debate in political circles.
Supporters of the former Anambra State governor, however, argue that political realignments are part of Nigeria’s evolving democratic process.
One ally said, “What matters is not the platform but the vision and capacity to deliver. Coalition-building requires flexibility.”
Another supporter added, “In Nigeria, parties are often vehicles rather than ideologically rigid structures. Leaders must position themselves where they can best advance reform.”
The development underscores the growing intensity of political realignments and competing narratives within Nigeria’s opposition space, as key actors continue to reposition ahead of future electoral contests.