The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has reiterated his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election, dismissing widespread speculation about a possible alliance with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as his running mate.
Speaking on Sunday Politics, a Channels Television programme, Obi made it clear that he has no plans to accept a vice-presidential position under Atiku or any other candidate.
“I am going to contest for the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and I believe I am qualified for it,” Obi stated. When asked about the possibility of being Atiku’s running mate in 2027, he responded, “That is not under consideration. Nobody has discussed that with me. People just make assumptions.”
Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, emphasized his commitment to the Labour Party while also acknowledging his involvement in the broader opposition coalition recently aligned with the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The coalition aims to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who is expected to seek a second term in 2027.
“I’m part of the coalition working to produce a president with the competence and compassion to rescue this country,” he said.
He clarified that joining the ADC-led coalition does not signify a departure from the Labour Party or a betrayal of its principles. “There’s nothing anti-party about it. We are not abandoning our party; we are moving together with a shared vision,” Obi explained.
Addressing concerns over his engagement with controversial political figures, Obi said inclusive leadership is key to national development. “A leader’s job is to bring change. To serve effectively, you must engage with everyone,” he noted.
Obi also criticized the performance of the Tinubu administration, accusing it of poor governance and promising a more accountable, disciplined leadership if elected.
“We will lawfully remove Tinubu’s government,” he declared. “I will govern with civility, uphold the rule of law, and appoint competent individuals to public office. I will not serve as Minister of Petroleum.”
His remarks come as opposition parties ramp up efforts to form a unified political force ahead of the 2027 elections, amid growing public discontent over economic challenges and perceived mismanagement by the current administration.
