As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general elections, the political atmosphere is once again heating up, and former presidential candidate Peter Obi is back in the headlines.
A recent high-profile meeting in Abuja brought together opposition heavyweights, sparking a flurry of speculation and political analysis. NaijaBlogDaily gathered that among the attendees were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Minister Rotimi Amaechi, political strategist Kashim Ibrahim-Imam, and Labour Party’s 2023 flagbearer Peter Obi.
Peter Obi’s Public Stand: Principles Over Position?
Peter Obi has repeatedly distanced himself from any pursuit of political positions. Speaking at a recent event in Abuja, he declared:
- “Politics for me is not about positions. It’s about doing the right thing.”
He emphasized his mission to combat poverty, improve healthcare, and restore quality education across Nigeria.
In response to growing speculation about a potential vice-presidential offer, Obi stated:
- “I’m in a coalition against hunger, not for vice presidency.”
- Yet, in a viral video, Obi reassured his supporters that he remains loyal to the Labour Party, stating clearly:
- “I will still continue to run in the Labour Party. I’m a member of the Labour Party.”
The Abuja Coalition Meeting: Mixed Signals?
Despite these declarations, Obi’s presence at the opposition coalition meeting in Abuja—hosted by the National Political Consultative Group (North)—has raised fresh questions about his real intentions. The gathering aimed to form a unified front to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling APC in 2027.
Reports have resurfaced about Atiku Abubakar offering Obi the vice-presidential slot on a one-term agreement, with a promise to hand over power in 2031. While no formal announcement has been made, insiders claim negotiations are ongoing.
Labour Party Tensions & Coalition Strategy
Within both the PDP and Labour Party, internal divisions are prompting talks of an alternative coalition platform, with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) emerging as the preferred choice.
ADC Chairman Ralph Nwosu confirmed that party reforms are in motion to allow new entrants to contest eligibility, including waiving the two-year membership rule. Nwosu also revealed plans to step down to make way for fresh leadership aligned with the coalition agenda.
Obidient Movement Reacts to VP Rumours
The Obi-Directed Movement quickly dismissed claims that Obi had accepted a VP offer. Nana Kazaure, the group’s Communications Director, stated:
“Peter Obi remains focused on real change, not personal ambition. Any political decision will be made public by him directly.”
Babachir Lawal: It’s Not All About Atiku
Former SGF Babachir Lawal, a staunch Obi supporter, insisted that the coalition is not designed to favour Atiku:
- “Obi and Amaechi are not there to hand over the ticket to Atiku. It’s a democratic coalition. Anyone can emerge through due process.”
Lawal stressed that transparent primaries and inclusive conventions will determine the coalition’s candidates.
PDP Confident, Youth Demand Inclusion
PDP leaders, including Timothy Osadolor, expressed confidence that a united opposition can defeat APC in 2027:
- “If Atiku and Obi truly align, victory will be secured before 1 PM on election day.”
Peter Obi, now 62, has also hinted at retiring from politics by age 70, urging a generational shift and greater youth involvement in leadership.
Pandora Papers and the Question of Integrity
Despite Obi’s principled public image, questions about his past conduct persist. The Pandora Papers leak in 2021 revealed his ownership of undeclared offshore companies — a violation of Nigeria’s code of conduct for public officials. Obi’s response was vague, casting a shadow over his otherwise clean persona.
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Conclusion: Strategy or Double Standards?
Peter Obi continues to walk a fine line between political principle and pragmatism. His involvement in coalition meetings while maintaining loyalty to the Labour Party has fueled public debate:
- Is he building a broader alliance to challenge the ruling party?
- Or is he compromising his earlier ideals for political leverage?
As the 2027 elections approach, Nigerians are watching closely, hopeful for a true alternative, yet wary of familiar patterns wrapped in reformist language.
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