Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has dismissed growing speculation that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is plotting to hijack the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In an interview during his recent visit to LEA Primary School, Kapwa, Abuja, Obi played down reports of political manoeuvring by Atiku, describing him as a “dear elder brother and respected leader.”
“I have no fear about Atiku’s political moves,” Obi said. “For us to do the right thing for the country, all well-meaning people will have to come together to rescue Nigeria.”
The speculation emerged following reports that loyalists of Atiku, who contested the 2023 elections under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), had begun defecting to the ADC-led coalition — a move that has unsettled Obi’s supporters and sparked concerns of a potential takeover.
Tensions rose further after Atiku, in a recent BBC Hausa interview, declared he would not step down for any aspirant unless defeated in the ADC primaries. The statement renewed debate around his 2027 ambitions and sent shockwaves through political circles.
Adding fuel to the fire, former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, warned via his X (formerly Twitter) handle that “it would be difficult for any aspirant to defeat Atiku if he makes it to any party primaries.”
“It’s about rescue, not rivalry” – Obi
Obi, however, stressed that the emerging coalition was about national interest, not personal ambition or rivalry.
“I’m a member of the Labour Party and I belong to the coalition forming with the ADC for the 2027 presidential election. Other parties and people will join. All of us are coming together as a people,” he explained.
The former Anambra State governor also affirmed his readiness to contest in the 2027 elections, hinting at flexibility on the platform, but firmness in purpose.
“I’m contesting and I’m sure I will be. People will have to look at who is competent, whether he has the capacity and everything. And I think I’m qualified. I have the capacity to do the job,” he said.
Obi reiterated his belief that, if given the chance, he could turn Nigeria’s fortunes around.
“In four years, I can change the trajectory of Nigeria to a positive one,” he confidently stated.
From party politics to people-centred issues
Taking a swipe at Nigeria’s obsession with partisan politics, Obi urged a shift in national discourse towards policies that directly impact ordinary citizens.
“We’ve talked too much politics in this country. I was in some villages in Anambra State and saw poverty everywhere. We’re still talking about party chairmen and primaries. I want a new Nigeria where we’re talking about what will benefit the people,” he said.
Obi and Atiku were both defeated by President Bola Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election — one of the most competitive in Nigeria’s history. Obi, powered by a strong youth movement, came third behind Atiku.
As the 2027 race begins to take shape, the political landscape appears headed for another fierce showdown, with alliances shifting and power blocs forming across the country.
