Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has reacted to the defection of former presidential candidate Peter Obi from Labour Party to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

According to Sheikh Gumi, the defection is a sign that "Nigerian democracy is maturing."

He further stated that strong opposition is vital for good governance, adding that "politicians should listen to the people's cry and do the right thing. Time is fast approaching; no one can hold Nigerians to ransom."

MyNigeria reported that Obi joined the ADC on Wednesday in Enugu during a large political gathering, where he stated he had been part of the ADC-led coalition since the beginning.

He was accompanied by several notable politicians, including Senators Enyinnaya Abaribe, who announced his resignation from APGA; Victor Umeh and Tony Nwoye, both formerly of the Labour Party.

Also joining ADC were former Labour Party members of the House of Representatives led by Hon. Victor Ogene, along with Hon. Peter Uzokwe of the Young Progressive Party (YPP), representing Nnewi North/South/Ekwusigo Federal Constituency.

Other prominent figures who joined the party included former governors Achike Udenwa (Imo), Okwesilieze Nwodo (Enugu), Sam Egwu (Ebonyi), and former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chief Emeka Ihedioha. Also present were Senator Gilbert Nnaji and the only remaining Labour Party member in the Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Harrison Ogara.

During his speech, Obi expressed concern over what he described as the decline of democratic values, accusing those benefiting from democracy of weakening the system.

“ADC will not allow democracy to be destroyed. We are committed to unity, security, and a better Nigeria. We will resist any plot to rig the 2027 elections,” he said.

Obi criticised the nation’s economic direction, noting that Nigeria’s GDP was declining despite rising public debt.

“Our economy is not growing, yet we are borrowing endlessly. This does not reflect competent leadership,” he stated.

ASA