Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has announced his intention to run for the presidency again in 2027. He expressed his willingness to serve just a single four-year term if elected.
Obi made this announcement during a live session on X Spaces on Sunday night, where he addressed questions from supporters both in Nigeria and internationally. In a statement released on Monday by his spokesperson, Ibrahim Umar of the Peter Obi Media Reach, he refuted any rumors about a potential joint ticket with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. However, he expressed openness to coalition discussions, provided they focus on addressing Nigeria’s pressing issues.
“If the coalition does not aim to stop the violence in places like Benue and Zamfara, revive our economy, or ensure food security for Nigerians, then I want no part in it. Nigeria is in a state of crisis; we must act,” Obi stated.
He promised to bring stability to Nigeria within two years of his administration and encouraged citizens to join him in his mission to improve the nation. “In my first two years in office, I will establish stability in Nigeria. It is imperative for our leaders to work together to solve Nigeria’s problems,” he added.
Addressing the internal conflict within the Labour Party, Obi mentioned that steps are being taken to ensure that the faction led by Nenadi Usman receives recognition from the Independent National Electoral Commission, as per the Supreme Court’s decision.
On the subject of power rotation, he expressed his support for alternating leadership between the North and South, noting that he implemented this practice during his governorship in Anambra.
Commenting on President Bola Tinubu’s recent trip to St. Lucia, Obi criticized the President’s lack of presence in Nigeria, arguing that St. Lucia is comparable in size to Ilorin, Nigeria’s tenth-largest city. He pointed out that since taking office in 2023, President Tinubu has not spent a night outside Lagos.
Regarding his plans for 2027, Obi affirmed that his approach would prioritize non-violence and transparency. He asserted, “We will operate differently in 2027, emphasizing a non-violent strategy and ensuring that votes are accurately counted.”
For his first 100 days in office, he highlighted three priorities: security, education, and poverty alleviation. He insisted on integrity within his administration, declaring that his family would not participate in corruption and that funds would be directed to critical sectors.
Obi promised to strengthen party opposition and prevent elected officials from switching to different parties, stating, “Under my leadership, there will be no defections among elected officials.”
He criticized the current administration for having misplaced priorities, noting, “While people suffer in Benue, Borno, and elsewhere, our leaders are focused on commissioning bus stops and enjoying vacations.”
He called for responsible governance, emphasizing the importance of integrity. “To establish order in governance, I will focus on security, education, and lifting people out of poverty by reducing the cost of governance and combating corruption from day one.”
Reflecting on his experience, he said, “My past actions speak volumes. I was always present in Anambra State during times of crisis. Anyone aspiring to serve must be willing to risk their life for the well-being of Nigerians. No one abroad takes you seriously without a stable government.”
