Political economist Professor Pat Utomi has declared that he will withdraw his support for Peter Obi if the former Anambra State governor agrees to run as a vice-presidential candidate to anyone.
Speaking during a television interview, Utomi insisted that Obi will contest for the presidency in the next general election, following his recent move to the African Democratic Congress. He dismissed claims that Obi had already accepted to become a vice-presidential candidate under the ADC platform, describing such reports as untrue.
Utomi stated clearly that the moment Obi accepts a vice-presidential slot, he would no longer associate himself with or support him politically. He maintained that Obi’s ambition remains the presidency and not a subordinate role.
During the same discussion, Utomi also argued for age limits for executive offices in Nigeria. He proposed that no Nigerian above the age of 70 should be allowed to run for president or governor, criticising the trend of elderly leaders occupying top political offices.
He described the presidency as having turned into a retirement destination where public office holders rely on state resources for medical care. According to him, recent administrations have struggled with effective governance due to the physical absence or incapacity of leaders.
Utomi said he would actively campaign to convince Nigerians to support constitutional limits on the age of candidates seeking executive positions, stressing that fitness and presence are critical for national leadership.
Meanwhile, Peter Obi, who placed third in the last presidential election with over six million votes, recently announced his defection to the African Democratic Congress. Speaking at the event, Obi said his move marked the beginning of a rescue mission aimed at saving Nigeria from poor governance.
He described the decision as a step toward building a more inclusive and unified country, adding that Nigerians must resist efforts by those in power to undermine democracy through intimidation or political manipulation.
