Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s (LP) 2023 presidential candidate, has confirmed his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election under the LP, describing it as possibly his final bid for Nigeria’s presidency.
In a video message shared on LP WhatsApp platforms, Obi addressed young supporters, reaffirming his commitment to the party amid speculation about an opposition coalition involving figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, potentially on the African Democratic Congress (ADC) platform.
“I will still continue to run in the Labour Party. I’m a member of the Labour Party,” Obi stated, dispelling rumours of a defection. He accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of orchestrating internal crises within the LP and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to weaken opposition ahead of 2027.
“What is happening in the Labour Party and the PDP is caused by the government. Quote me anywhere. These crises are not organic; they are manufactured by those in power,” he argued.
Obi contrasted the current political climate with the era under President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, when party disputes were handled fairly. “But today, in all the parties, there are problems. These are deliberate problems caused by the system—caused by the APC,” he said. He stressed the importance of a strong opposition for democracy, adding, “You can’t have a democracy without strong opposition.”
Urging Nigerians, particularly youths, to defend democracy through active electoral participation and transparency, Obi also advocated for political reforms, including age limits for elective positions.
At 65 by 2027, he hinted this could be his last political contest. “I believe in giving room for new leadership. After 2027, I want to step back and contribute in other ways,” he said.
