As political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, the member representing Idemili North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Harris Okonkwo, has expressed confidence that former Anambra State governor Peter Obi will secure the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Okonkwo spoke to journalists in Ojoto during a medical outreach organised by the Annie Okonkwo Foundation for residents of his constituency.

The federal lawmaker, who recently defected from the Labour Party to the ADC, said he and his supporters would work hard to ensure that Obi emerges as the party’s presidential candidate.

“I believe that Nigerians know what is good for them. The good thing is that there will be no more delegates for the primaries, as it is going to be either by consensus or direct primaries,” he said.

“So the people are the ones who will decide when it comes to selecting the presidential candidate.”

Okonkwo, however, criticised provisions in the recently amended Electoral Act, which he said undermine freedom of association.

“Truth be told, freedom of association and freedom of political participation should not be tampered with. I argued against it, but unfortunately we were in the minority and the majority had its way,” he said.

According to him, while the law may prevent individuals from belonging to multiple political parties, it should not restrict people from supporting candidates outside their parties.

“One could belong to one party but decide to support a candidate in another party. There should be no limit to freedom of association,” he added.

Okonkwo also expressed concern over what he described as poor management of national resources, urging government leaders to prioritise the welfare of citizens.

“Our concern should be the way the Nigerian government manages our resources and the level of extravagance being exhibited at the expense of the people. I believe that in the long run, truth will prevail,” he said. (Vanguard)