Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, has officially declared his intention to run for president again in the 2027 general election. Speaking during a live X Spaces session on Sunday, Obi stated that if elected, he would serve only a single four-year term. He explained that the decision to commit to one term aligns with potential coalition agreements focused on rescuing the country. Obi firmly dismissed speculation about running alongside former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, noting that while he is open to coalition talks, any alliance must be rooted in addressing Nigeria’s real problems, such as insecurity, poverty, and economic collapse, not just political convenience.
He promised to restore stability within his first two years in office and outlined his top priorities for the first 100 days: improving security, revitalizing education, and tackling poverty. Obi emphasized his commitment to non-violent politics and electoral transparency, vowing that in 2027, the people’s votes would count and be protected. He also pledged to cut the cost of governance and fight corruption from day one, asserting that his family would not be involved in any public funds or contracts. On internal party matters, Obi stated that efforts were ongoing to ensure the Nenadi Usman-led faction of the Labour Party is recognized by INEC, following a Supreme Court ruling.
Responding to questions about power rotation, Obi reiterated his support for equitable governance between the North and South, a principle he upheld during his time as governor of Anambra State. He also took a swipe at President Bola Tinubu for his extended stay in St. Lucia, saying it was unacceptable for a leader to abandon the country while people are being killed in places like Benue and Zamfara. He criticized what he described as misaligned national priorities, arguing that while citizens suffer, leaders are preoccupied with commissioning bus stops and foreign trips. Obi concluded by saying Nigeria needs leaders willing to put their lives on the line for the people, promising to offer a different kind of leadership grounded in accountability, compassion, and urgency.
