Peter Obi Confirms 2027 Presidential Bid, Denies Atiku Running Mate Rumors

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has announced his intention to run for Nigeria’s presidency again in 2027.

In a recent interview with Channels Television, the former Anambra governor dismissed speculation that he had agreed to serve as running mate to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the next election cycle.

Obi clarified that he remains a committed member of the Labour Party (LP) despite his involvement with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which he described as a coalition of opposition parties working together. He emphasized that his participation in the ADC alliance does not amount to anti-party activity, stating firmly, “I have not abandoned the LP.”

Addressing rumors about a potential alliance with Atiku, Obi said, “This is not in play. Nobody has ever discussed that.” He added, “People assume so many things. Nobody has ever discussed with me whether I am going to be A or B or C. I’m going to contest for the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and I believe I am qualified for it.”

Explaining his decision to collaborate with the ADC, Obi stressed the importance of learning from both past successes and failures in governance. **“I need the experiences of those who had previously failed and succeeded to lead a country like Nigeria,” he said. The former governor also expressed confidence in his ability to deliver tangible results within a single term, declaring, “I do not need more than four years in office to deliver good governance for Nigeria.”

The ADC recently emerged as a unified platform for opposition leaders seeking to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027. Among those aligning with the coalition are Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President David Mark, and ex-Interior Minister Rauf Aregbesola. Other notable figures include Aminu Tambuwal (former Sokoto governor), Rotimi Amaechi (former Transportation Minister), Solomon Dalung (former Sports Minister), and Odigie Oyegun (former APC National Chairman).

Obi’s reaffirmation of his presidential ambition sets the stage for another competitive election, with opposition forces rallying under a broad coalition to present a formidable challenge to the ruling party. His insistence on running as a presidential candidate—not a vice-presidential pick—signals his determination to remain a leading voice in Nigeria’s political landscape.