Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential flagbearer in the 2023 election, has confirmed he will run again in the 2027 presidential race. During a live session on X Spaces with supporters within and outside Nigeria, Obi stated his readiness to serve only one four-year term if elected. He stressed his commitment to a peaceful, transparent electoral process and pledged that the 2027 elections would reflect the true will of the people. He also outlined his core focus areas for the first 100 days in office: improving security, strengthening education, and reducing poverty.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Ibrahim Umar, Obi dismissed speculations about a possible joint ticket with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. However, he expressed openness to coalition talks that are rooted in addressing critical national issues. “If the coalition is not about stopping the killings in Benue, Zamfara, how to revive our economy, how to make our industries productive, how to put food on the tables of Nigerians… Count me out,” he said. Obi also assured Nigerians that he could restore national stability within two years if given the mandate.
Speaking on developments within the Labour Party, Obi revealed that steps were being taken to secure official recognition from INEC for the Nenadi Usman-led faction, in line with a Supreme Court decision. He reaffirmed his support for the principle of rotational leadership between the North and South, citing his past actions in Anambra State. Obi also took a swipe at President Bola Tinubu over his recent trip to St. Lucia, criticising his prolonged absence and calling for more active, present leadership during a time of national distress.
Obi did not hold back in his criticism of the current administration, condemning what he described as misplaced priorities amid widespread insecurity and hardship. He promised to slash government spending, tackle corruption from his first day in office, and ensure that party defection by elected officials would be a thing of the past. “There will be no defection of elected officials to other parties when I am in charge,” he said. He underscored the need for integrity and hands-on leadership, declaring, “Anyone who wants to lead must be willing to risk their life for the well-being of Nigerians.”
