Peter Obi declares 2027 Presidential bid

The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has confirmed he will run for Nigeria’s presidency again in 2027, firmly denying reports that he might contest as a running mate to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

Speaking during an interview on Channels TV’s Sunday Politics, Obi made it clear no one had approached him with such a proposal.

“Nobody has ever discussed with me whether to be A or B or C. I am going to contest for the President of Nigeria, and I believe I’m qualified,” he said.

Obi also addressed recent moves by opposition parties to form a coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) platform ahead of the 2027 elections, explaining it was a joint effort and not an act of disloyalty to the Labour Party. “There is nothing anti-party in the decision. We are not abandoning where we are. We are going there together. What is constant is that we have agreed to work together,” he explained.

Reacting to criticism about his association with some politicians perceived to have questionable reputations, Obi stated that genuine leadership should be inclusive. “The job of a leader is to change. You need everybody. If you want to serve, you must serve everybody,” he added.

Taking a swipe at President Bola Tinubu’s administration, Obi criticised the handling of the country’s affairs, vowing to provide disciplined and effective leadership if elected. “We’re going to ensure that we remove Tinubu’s government by all lawful means. I will govern within the law, bring civility to Nigeria, and appoint competent people into office. I will not be Minister of Petroleum,” he declared.

His comments come amid efforts by Nigeria’s opposition figures to unite ahead of 2027, as Nigerians continue to grapple with worsening economic challenges and political tensions under the current administration.