Peter Obi Vows to Run for 2027 Presidency

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s candidate in the 2023 presidential election, has confirmed he will be running again in 2027, promising a four-year term if elected. In a candid conversation with his supporters on Sunday, Obi also refuted rumors that he had discussed or agreed to a coalition ticket with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

Speaking during an interactive session on social media platform X, Obi addressed several key issues concerning Nigeria’s future, his political stance, and his plans for the upcoming election. He reassured his supporters both at home and abroad that he remains committed to the mission of rescuing Nigeria from its current crisis. He firmly stated that any coalition not aimed at ending the violence and insecurity plaguing Nigeria—particularly in Benue and Zamfara—would not align with his vision.

“I’m all for uniting patriotic Nigerians, but it’s essential that any coalition addresses the urgent issues facing our nation: the killings, the economy, and the need for industrial revival,” Obi said.

He described Nigeria as being in a state of war, emphasizing the urgency for change. Obi promised that, if elected, his administration would bring stability to the country within two years. On the state of the Labour Party, Obi reassured party members that efforts were ongoing to secure recognition for the Nenadi Usman-led faction, in line with a Supreme Court ruling.

Obi also addressed the debate over the rotation of the presidency between the North and South, affirming his support for this practice. He shared how, as governor of Anambra State, he implemented a rotational system, promoting balanced governance and inclusivity. One of Obi’s sharpest critiques was aimed at President Bola Tinubu’s recent trip to St. Lucia, a small island in the Caribbean.

"In two years, President Tinubu has not spent a single night in any state outside of Lagos, yet he chooses to spend 8 nights in St. Lucia—a place smaller than Ajegunle,” Obi pointed out, drawing attention to the disconnect between the president’s international travel and the pressing issues within Nigeria. Looking ahead to the 2027 election, Obi emphasized that his approach would be different. He vowed to run a peaceful, transparent campaign where every vote would count, promising reforms to ensure the integrity of the election process.

“In 2027, we will insist that the right thing is done before the election results are announced. Our votes will count, and we will make sure of that,” he said.

When asked about his key priorities, Obi identified security, education, and poverty alleviation as his top focus areas during his first 100 days in office. He highlighted the need for governance reform, emphasizing his commitment to cutting costs and eliminating corruption.

"My family will not be involved in corruption," he asserted, stressing that the resources of the nation would be channeled into critical sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Obi also pledged to create a strong political opposition, preventing defections by elected officials and ensuring a healthy political environment. He voiced his frustration with the current leadership, criticizing the government for its lack of action while citizens suffer in regions like Benue and Borno.

“Our leaders are busy commissioning bus stops and vacationing abroad, while people are dying,” he lamented. Ultimately, Obi’s vision for Nigeria is one of accountability, transparency, and focused leadership. He believes his track record as governor of Anambra State, where he was hands-on and actively involved in addressing local issues, speaks volumes about his readiness to serve at the national level.

“To lead is to be ready to put your life on the line for your people,” he said. His message was clear: Nigeria cannot afford to remain stagnant, and only a stable, responsive government can restore the country’s international credibility. As the countdown to 2027 begins, Peter Obi remains determined to lead Nigeria toward a brighter future.