The 2023 general election Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has restated his intention to contest the presidency in 2027, firmly dismissing claims that he may serve as a running mate to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar or any other candidate.
Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Obi said he had not been approached to play a secondary role in any ticket and maintained his focus on leading Nigeria.
“Nobody has ever discussed with me whether to be A or B or C,” Obi said. “I am going to contest for the President of Nigeria, and I believe I’m qualified.”
He also addressed concerns over the coalition of opposition parties adopting the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a joint platform ahead of 2027, clarifying that it does not amount to abandoning the Labour Party.
“There is nothing anti-party in the decision,” he stated. “We are not abandoning where we are. We are going there together. What is constant is that we have agreed to work together.”
On questions about associating with controversial political figures within the coalition, Obi said true leadership requires inclusion.
“The job of a leader is to change,” he said. “You need everybody. If you want to serve, you must serve everybody.”
The former Anambra State governor also took a swipe at the current administration, criticising President Bola Tinubu’s style of governance.
“We’re going to ensure that we remove Tinubu’s government by all lawful means,” Obi said. “I will govern within the law, I will bring civility to Nigeria, and I will appoint competent people into office. I will not be Minister of Petroleum.”
His comments come amid growing dissatisfaction with the government over economic challenges and ahead of what many anticipate to be a fiercely contested 2027 general election.
