Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has officially declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election. Speaking during a live interactive session on X Spaces on Sunday night, Obi revealed that he is prepared to serve only one four-year term, if elected.
Obi’s declaration was further reinforced in a statement released on Monday by his media aide, Ibrahim Umar of the Peter Obi Media Reach.
Dismissing speculations of a possible joint ticket with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Obi clarified that while he is open to coalition talks, such alliances must be focused on solving Nigeria’s core problems.
“If the coalition is not about stopping the killings in Benue, Zamfara, reviving our economy, and making industries productive, count me out,” he asserted. “Nigeria is currently at war. We need to do something about it.”
Obi promised to bring national stability within two years of assuming office and outlined security, education, and poverty reduction as his top three priorities for his first 100 days.
“I will bring stability in Nigeria within two years in office. Leaders of Nigeria should sit down in Nigeria and fix Nigeria,” he said.
On internal party issues, Obi confirmed efforts are ongoing to gain Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recognition for the Nenadi Usman-led Labour Party faction, following the Supreme Court’s verdict.
He also reaffirmed his belief in power rotation between the North and South, citing how he implemented it during his tenure as governor of Anambra State.
In a swipe at President Bola Tinubu’s extended foreign stays, Obi criticised the President’s reported 10-day visit to St. Lucia.
“St Lucia is about the size of the 10th largest city in Nigeria, Ilorin. President Tinubu has never slept a night in any Nigerian state outside Lagos since taking office,” Obi said.
As 2027 approaches, Obi promised a non-violent campaign focused on electoral integrity.
“We will do things differently in 2027. Our votes will count, and we will ensure they count.”
“My family will not be involved in corruption. Funds will go to critical sectors.”
Obi concluded with a call for responsible leadership.
“To bring order in governance, I will cut the cost of governance, fight corruption, and lead by example. Anybody who wants to serve should be ready to put their life on the line for Nigerians.”
