Obi Declares 2027 Presidential Bid, Dismisses Pressure to Step Down

Obi Confirms Plan to Run in 2027
Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has declared that he will contest the 2027 general election in Nigeria.

He made this known on Saturday in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, during the OBIDIENT Conference and official declaration for the African Democratic Congress. The event brought together his supporters and members of the movement backing his ambition.

Obi said he is prepared to run despite reports that some forces within the Federal Government do not want him on the ballot. He stated that he remains determined to participate in the election regardless of the circumstances surrounding it.

According to him, Nigeria must correct its political and governance challenges in 2027 to secure a better future for the younger generation.

The former Anambra State governor spoke about the country’s rising debt profile, saying the current administration has taken large loans that will be repaid many years from now.

He expressed concern that the burden of repayment will fall on future generations, long after those responsible for the borrowing have left office.

Explaining his departure from the Labour Party, Obi said he was informed that internal party issues would prevent the electoral body from recognizing its leadership if he remained.

He added that he decided to move on in order to continue his political journey without obstacles.

Obi promised that if elected president, his government would invest strongly in education and healthcare. He said countries that made progress did so by building their human capital and reducing poverty.

He also pledged to fight corruption and ensure transparency in leadership, stating that leaders must live by example. He recalled his time as governor of Anambra State, noting that he avoided personal gain from public office and maintained a simple lifestyle.

He further stated that credible elections must include real-time electronic transmission of results. He said he would work to ensure that the electoral process is open and trustworthy.

Obi also announced plans to travel across the country and visit tertiary institutions to understand the challenges facing young people and students.

Other speakers at the event, including leaders of the OBIDIENT movement, called on supporters nationwide to unite under the African Democratic Congress ahead of 2027.

They urged members to remain focused and avoid division as preparations for the election gather pace.