Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), has confirmed that he will contest in the 2027 presidential election, firmly rejecting speculation that he might serve as a running mate to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Obi declared, “I’m going to contest for the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and I believe I am qualified for it.”
Addressing rumours about a possible alliance with Atiku, Obi clarified, “This is not in play. Nobody has ever discussed that. People assume so many things. Nobody has ever discussed with me whether I am going to be A or B or C.”
Obi, a former Governor of Anambra State, reaffirmed his commitment to the Labour Party, emphasizing that he remains an active and loyal member. However, he also disclosed his involvement in a broader opposition coalition, which includes parties such as the African Democratic Congress (ADC), aimed at challenging President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.
“I am part of a coalition that will be able to produce a president with the capacity and compassion to save this country,” he said.
Obi also criticized the Tinubu administration’s economic policies, claiming it has borrowed more than the combined total of past administrations led by Presidents Yar’Adua, Jonathan, and Buhari. However, he did not provide specific data to support this assertion.
On the ongoing coalition talks, Obi noted that discussions regarding a consensus presidential candidate have not yet taken place.
“No one has talked to me about being anyone’s running mate. That is not part of the conversation. The focus right now is on building a coalition that can deliver competent leadership. The decision on who leads rests with Nigerians,” he stated.
The opposition coalition includes key political figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, and Obi himself. Sources indicate that Obi has proposed a one-term presidency if elected, a suggestion currently under consideration within the group.
The coalition’s emergence has triggered intense political discourse, with analysts divided on its potential. While some believe it could disrupt the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)’s grip on power, others remain skeptical due to the involvement of politicians with previous ties to Nigeria’s political establishment.
