Peter Obi Declares 2027 Presidential Ambition, Rules Out Running Mate Role with Atiku

 

Labour Party stalwart and 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has formally announced his intention to contest for the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the upcoming 2027 general elections. Obi made the declaration during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics programme, where he also debunked ongoing speculation linking him to a potential alliance with Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
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“I’m going to contest for the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and I believe I am qualified for it,” Obi stated confidently, making it clear that his eyes are firmly set on the nation’s top office.

Amid rising political speculation and discussions of opposition coalition-building, Obi dismissed rumours that he could serve as Atiku’s running mate in 2027. He emphasized that no such discussions had taken place and that public assumptions were unfounded.

“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,” he clarified.

A former governor of Anambra State, Obi reiterated his commitment to the Labour Party, under whose platform he contested in 2023. However, he also acknowledged his role in the coalition movement led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC)—a broader political alliance aimed at unseating the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is widely expected to seek re-election in 2027.

“I remain a member of the Labour Party. I am part of the coalition which will be able to produce a president with the capacity and compassion to save this country,” Obi said, signaling a united opposition front without compromising his presidential ambition.

During the interview, Obi emphasized the urgency of national transformation, stating that the last two years under the APC administration had inflicted “maximum damage” on Nigeria’s economy, institutions, and social fabric. He argued that another two years, with focused leadership, could begin to reverse the decline.

“In two years, there has been maximum damage. Two years can change it in a good direction,” Obi said. “People want to get up and see a president that cares, that shows compassion.”

The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate went further to pledge that he would only seek one term in office, using the four years to set Nigeria on a path of economic recovery, good governance, and institutional reform.

“I don’t need a day more than four years. I will show the direction of good governance,” he declared.

Peter Obi’s formal declaration for the 2027 presidency positions him as one of the leading opposition figures expected to challenge the APC-led federal government in the next electoral cycle. His strong support base, particularly among the youth, urban professionals, and progressive-minded citizens, remains a significant factor in the evolving political landscape.

Obi’s comments suggest he remains uncompromising in his ambition and vision, even as talks of a grand opposition coalition continue to gain momentum. His emphasis on compassion-driven leadership and fiscal accountability resonates with many Nigerians who have grown disillusioned with the status quo.

As the countdown to the 2027 elections begins, Peter Obi's reaffirmed candidacy adds momentum to Nigeria's evolving political discourse, setting the stage for what could be another high-stakes contest for the presidency.