POLITICS
2027 Presidency: Peter Obi Confirms Fresh Presidential Bid, Rules Out Vice-Presidential Role, Clarifies ADC Coalition Status
Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party and ex-Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, has officially confirmed his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election, putting to rest weeks of political speculation about his next move ahead of the forthcoming polls.
Obi made the declaration on Sunday night while speaking during an interactive X Spaces session, where he addressed supporters and Nigerians on his political future, leadership philosophy, and ongoing coalition discussions.
In a firm and unequivocal stance, the former governor ruled out any possibility of serving as a running mate to another candidate, stressing that his years of preparation, exposure, and governance experience were not acquired to settle for a vice-presidential position.
“I am not travelling round the world to learn governance to be Vice president,” Obi said.
Reaffirming his confidence in his leadership capacity, Obi stated that he possesses the requisite knowledge, competence, and experience to lead Nigeria out of its current challenges, citing his private sector background and track record in public service.
“I know how to turn Nigeria around. I built my business from scratch and have more experience than any candidate, including the sitting President.
“Peter Obi will be on the ballot in 2027. I need your support. I need your prayers.”
The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate also used the platform to address reports suggesting that he may be defecting to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the next general election. According to Obi, such reports are misleading, as he does not need to formally join or rejoin the party.
Obi clarified that he has always been a member of the ADC and has been involved in the coalition arrangement from its inception.
“I am not joining the ADC. I cannot re-join what I am already a part of,” Obi said.
“I have been part of the coalition from day one.”
He further dispelled rumours of internal power struggles within the coalition, noting that no individual was stepping down for him, and that all stakeholders were committed to collective progress.
“Nobody is stepping down for me in the ADC.
“We have all agreed to work together, and Atiku remains my respected leader.”
Obi also took time to express his respect for former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, underscoring the spirit of cooperation and mutual regard among key figures within the coalition.
His clarification comes amid widespread reports of a possible formal move to the ADC as political realignments intensify ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
With his latest declaration, Peter Obi has once again positioned himself as a central figure in Nigeria’s evolving opposition politics, setting the stage for what promises to be another keenly contested presidential race.