Peter Obi declares 2027 Presidential ambition, vows to serve only one term if elected

The Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has formally confirmed his intention to contest again in the 2027 presidential race.

He also disclosed his readiness to serve a single four-year term if elected, in line with any coalition agreement that may be reached.

Addressing his supporters during an X space interactive session late Sunday night, Obi dismissed rumours of a possible joint ticket with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, clarifying that while he actively participates in coalition talks, the focus remains on rescuing Nigeria from its current crisis.

Obi made it clear that his involvement in any coalition would only be for the genuine purpose of ending the widespread killings, reviving the nation’s economy, and restoring security and dignity to Nigerians. “If the coalition is not about stopping the killings in Benue, Zamfara, how to revive our economy, and how to make our industries productive, count me out,” he declared.

The former Anambra governor further promised to stabilise the country within two years if given the mandate, noting that his administration would prioritise security, education, and poverty eradication. He also vowed to run a lean government, reduce the cost of governance, fight corruption, and ensure elected officials maintain party loyalty throughout their terms.

On the state of the Labour Party, Obi affirmed that efforts were ongoing to get the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognise the Nenadi Usman-led leadership of the party, in line with a Supreme Court ruling.

Speaking on the presidency’s rotation, Obi reaffirmed his belief in the principle of power shift between Nigeria’s northern and southern regions, citing his own political practices in Anambra State.

Criticising President Bola Tinubu’s governance style, Obi lamented the president’s absence from other parts of the country since assuming office, noting that he spends more time in Lagos and abroad than in other states, even while the nation grapples with insecurity and economic hardship.

Obi assured his supporters that the 2027 polls would be different, stressing that his team would deploy a non-violent approach but insist that votes count before the final announcement. “Our votes in 2027 will count; we’ll ensure they count,” he promised.

Obi concluded by reiterating his commitment to a selfless and accountable leadership style, pledging that his family would not meddle in government affairs, while funds would be strictly channeled to vital sectors like security, education, and poverty alleviation.