Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has reaffirmed his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election, stating clearly that his participation in any coalition platform will depend on the credibility of its primary process.
Obi made this known while responding to a question about the possibility of serving as running mate to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who recently suggested that 2027 could be his final bid for the presidency if he secures the ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
According to Obi, discussions about vice-presidential arrangements are premature, emphasizing that the political process must first be transparent and fair before any such decisions are considered.
“At this stage, we are not there yet,” Obi said. “I can only tell you for a fact that I will be on the ballot in 2027. What matters most is the process. It must be credible, fair, and transparent.”
The former Anambra State governor stressed that his political decisions are guided by principles rather than personal ambition, noting that he has previously exited political parties where internal processes lacked integrity.
He further highlights the importance of due process in leadership selection, warning against what he described as “transactional politics.” Obi argued that leaders who emerge through flawed systems often struggle to deliver good governance.
“You cannot enter a house through the window and begin to clean it,” he said, using a metaphor to highlight the importance of following proper democratic procedures.
While acknowledging Atiku as a respected elder and leader, Obi maintained that any future political alignment would be determined by the outcome of a credible primary election and the collective interest of Nigerians, rather than individual ambitions.
The comments come amid growing speculation about potential alliances and power-sharing arrangements ahead of the 2027 general elections, with opposition figures exploring coalition strategies to challenge the ruling party.
Obi concluded by reiterating his commitment to a people-focused political process, insisting that leadership should be about national development rather than the pursuit of power.
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