By Deborah Nnamdi
Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has confirmed his intention to run again in the 2027 presidential election, promising to serve only a single four-year term if elected.
Speaking to supporters during a live X (formerly Twitter) Space on Sunday night, Obi addressed several pressing issues, including rumors of a potential alliance with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, which he firmly denied. He clarified that while he is involved in coalition discussions, any alliance must be focused on addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges.
“If the coalition isn’t aimed at ending the killings in Benue and Zamfara, reviving the economy, making industries productive, and ensuring Nigerians have food on their tables—count me out,” Obi stated. “Nigeria is in crisis. We need urgent action.”
In a statement released on Monday by Ibrahim Umar, spokesperson for the Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR), Obi reiterated his commitment to national stability and reform. He vowed to restore order within two years of assuming office. “Nigerian leaders must stay in Nigeria and fix Nigeria,” he said.
Regarding the internal issues within the Labour Party, Obi noted that efforts are ongoing to gain INEC’s recognition for the Nenadi Usman-led faction of the party, in line with the Supreme Court’s ruling.
He reaffirmed his belief in power rotation between the North and South, citing his implementation of this principle while serving as governor of Anambra State.
Obi also criticized President Tinubu’s recent overseas trip, saying: “In two years, President Tinubu hasn’t spent a single night in any Nigerian state apart from Lagos, but now plans to spend eight nights in St Lucia—a country smaller than Ajegunle. Nigeria deserves more serious leadership.”
Looking ahead to the 2027 election, Obi pledged to pursue a peaceful, lawful campaign. “We will insist on due process before the announcement of results in Abuja. Our votes will count—and we will ensure they count.”
He outlined his top priorities for the first 100 days in office: improving security, boosting education, and eradicating poverty. He emphasized the importance of cutting government waste and fighting corruption, declaring that his family would have no role in public funds or governance.
“My administration will strengthen opposition politics and ensure elected officials do not switch parties indiscriminately,” Obi added. “While Nigerians are dying in Benue and Borno, our leaders are busy commissioning bus stops and going on holidays.”
He concluded by saying, “To restore order in governance, we must tackle insecurity, invest in education, and lift people out of poverty. That starts with cutting the cost of governance and fighting corruption from day one. My track record in Anambra speaks for itself—I was always present when it mattered. Anyone seeking to lead Nigeria must be ready to make personal sacrifices for the good of the people.”
“Nobody abroad takes you seriously without a stable government,” he warned.
