Labour Party chieftain and 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has officially declared his intention to contest for Nigeria’s presidency in the 2027 general election. Dismissing persistent rumours suggesting he might serve as running mate to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Obi reaffirmed his independent ambition and his commitment to driving transformative leadership.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, the former Anambra State governor made his position clear:
“I’m going to contest for the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and I believe I am qualified for it.”
Asked about the possibility of deputising Atiku in the next election cycle, Obi was unequivocal.
“This is not in play; nobody has ever discussed that with me. People assume so many things,” he replied.
Labour Party Loyalist, ADC Coalition Strategist
While Obi emphasized his unwavering membership of the Labour Party (LP), he confirmed his active involvement in the African Democratic Congress (ADC)-led opposition coalition. The coalition was formally adopted by several top opposition figures with the aim of unseating President Bola Tinubu in 2027.
“I am part of the coalition that will produce a president with the capacity and compassion to save this country,” he said.
‘Four Years Is Enough to Fix Nigeria’ — Obi
In a bold pledge, Obi promised to deliver good governance and redirect Nigeria’s fortunes within a single four-year term if elected.
“I don’t need a day more than four years. I will show the direction of good governance,” he assured, adding that while Tinubu’s government had caused “maximum damage” in two years, a dedicated leadership could begin to reverse the nation’s misfortunes within the same time frame.
“People want to wake up and see a president that cares and shows compassion,” Obi stated.
Mega Opposition Coalition Targets 2027 Victory
The ADC-led coalition gained momentum on July 2, 2025, following a landmark meeting that brought together Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, ex-Senate President David Mark, former ministers Rauf Aregbesola and Rotimi Amaechi, and ex-Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai, among others.
The alliance aims to capitalise on the combined electoral strength of Obi and Atiku, who in 2023 polled a cumulative 12 million votes — four million more than what INEC officially declared for President Tinubu.
Obi to Critics: I Need Both Failed and Successful Politicians
Addressing public concerns over the involvement of politicians from past administrations, Obi argued that both success and failure offer critical lessons for national rebirth.
“You need the experience of those who have failed and those who have succeeded. They know what can fail a system and what went wrong,” he said.
‘No Anti-Party Activity Here’
Obi was quick to dismiss allegations of anti-party conduct, insisting that his coalition work for 2027 does not conflict with his Labour Party loyalty.
“No, there’s no anti-party. Remember, we said for 2027 — we’re not in 2027; we are in 2025. The coalition just adopted a platform for 2027,” he explained.
He added that the coalition could evolve and admit new parties or even rebrand ahead of the election.
“Today, I am a Labour Party member, and I remain so. But we are working together as a coalition for the sake of Nigeria’s future,” he said.
