The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has officially confirmed his intention to run for the 2027 presidential election, expressing readiness to serve a single four-year term if elected.
A statement released by the Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR) and signed by its spokesperson, Ibrahim Umar, noted that the former Anambra State Governor dismissed speculation about a possible joint ticket with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, stating that he is yet to engage in such discussions.
“I am committed to building a broad coalition of patriotic Nigerians, but if it’s not about ending the killings in Benue, Zamfara, and other places, reviving our economy, and making industries productive, count me out,” Obi said.
Addressing the challenges facing the nation, Obi emphasized that Nigeria is at war with insecurity and economic collapse, and urgent interventions are needed. “We must rescue this country together. I promise to restore stability within two years if elected president,” he declared.
On internal matters within the Labour Party, Obi confirmed efforts to ensure the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recognizes the Nenadi Usman-led leadership in accordance with a recent Supreme Court ruling.
Obi reiterated his stance on zoning, saying, “I believe in the rotation of power between North and South. I practised it in Anambra as governor, and I stand by it nationally.”
He also criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s travel to St. Lucia, questioning the President’s prolonged stay abroad while domestic crises persist. “In two years, President Tinubu has not spent a night in any state apart from Lagos, yet he plans to stay 8 to 10 nights in St. Lucia; a country smaller than Ajegunle,” Obi stated.
Looking ahead to the 2027 polls, Obi stressed a commitment to non-violence and electoral transparency. “Our votes will count, and we will insist on that before any result is declared in Abuja.”
He laid out a three-point agenda for his first 100 days in office: prioritizing security, education, and poverty eradication, while also pledging to cut the cost of governance and root out corruption.
“My family will not be involved in governance or corruption. Every kobo will be invested in key sectors,” he said.
He further promised to ensure party discipline, stating that under his watch, elected officials would not be allowed to defect indiscriminately. “There will be a credible opposition. That’s how democracy grows,” he added.
Obi, however, urged Nigerians to expect more accountable leadership, citing his personal example as governor.
“Wherever there was a crisis in Anambra, I was physically present. Leaders must be willing to risk their lives to protect their people. Nobody abroad respects a country that doesn’t govern itself well.”
