By: Mandy Park
Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has reaffirmed his intention to run for the presidency in 2027.
In a recent interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Obi expressed confidence in his qualifications for the office, stating, “I’m going to contest for the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and I believe I am qualified for it.”
His statement has generated renewed interest in his potential candidacy and the upcoming 2027 presidential election.
In response to a question whether he was considering becoming the running mate to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the 2027 election, Obi said, “This is not in play; nobody has ever discussed that. People assume so many things. Nobody has ever discussed with me whether I am going to be A or B or C.”
Obi was Atiku’s running mate in the 2019 presidential election. They lost to the incumbent at the time former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Obi, a former Anambra State governor, equally dispelled speculations that he had left the Labour Party following his open support for the coalition which has adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
He said, “I am part of the coalition which will be able to produce a president with the capacity and compassion to save this country.”
Asked why he was in a coalition with persons who were known to have played key roles in previous failed administrations, Obi explained that their experience would be required to prevent the government he intends to form from failing.
He said, “In fact even some who have been in that government, their experience is critical.
“I can tell you one of the major companies in the world hired two people who have worked in failed companies because they can tell you why they failed.
“You need the experience of those who have failed and those who have succeeded to move on, and I need everyone.
“It is a critical experience because they know what can fail a system and they know what was wrong with the system.”
Obi’s determination to contest for the presidency again underscores his commitment to public service and his desire to lead Nigeria.
As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Obi’s declaration is likely to have significant implications for Nigeria’s political landscape.
His candidacy could potentially draw support from various segments of the population, particularly among young people and those seeking change
