Peter Obi Vows to Contest 2027 Presidential Election Despite APC’s 30 Governors
Former Anambra State Governor and former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has announced that he will contest the 2027 presidential election, declaring that the presence of numerous governors from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) will not discourage him from participating in the race.
Obi made the declaration on Friday while addressing supporters in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State. During his speech, he stated that various political manoeuvres and pressures have been deployed in an attempt to discourage him from contesting the election, but insisted that he remains committed to the cause.
According to Obi, Nigeria is currently facing serious challenges and requires urgent reforms to restore stability and functionality. He said his ambition is not driven by personal desire for power but by the need to see a country that works for its citizens.
He told supporters that the current condition of Nigeria shows that the system is failing ordinary citizens. Obi argued that the country’s problems stem partly from the greed of some wealthy individuals who continue to accumulate resources despite already having enough.
“Nigeria has collapsed and is already lying on the ground. Nigeria is not working because many rich Nigerians are hungry and greedy. They have everything they need but are still scavenging for more,” he said.
He also cited examples from empowerment programmes where he claimed wealthy individuals sometimes compete for items meant for poorer beneficiaries. According to him, this reflects deeper systemic issues in the country’s leadership and governance.
Obi further explained that his motivation to seek the presidency is rooted in the desire to build a nation where equal opportunities exist for everyone regardless of their background.
“This country is skewed against the poor. That is why we are working to become president. We want a country where the son of a nobody can become somebody without knowing anybody,” he said.
The former governor also addressed questions regarding his political party affiliation. Obi revealed that he is currently associated with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) after leaving the Labour Party amid prolonged leadership disputes within the party.
He explained that the Labour Party had been involved in legal battles over its leadership structure and had secured favourable court rulings. However, he alleged that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) initially refused to recognise those rulings.
Obi said the situation changed only after he exited the party.
“You all know that I’m now in ADC. People have been asking me why I left Labour Party. We were in court over leadership issues and got favourable judgments, but INEC refused to recognise them. When I left on December 31, they suddenly recognised the same court orders they had earlier rejected,” he said.
He also suggested that certain political developments, including constitutional adjustments and political alliances, may be designed to prevent him from participating effectively in the upcoming election.
Despite these challenges, Obi expressed confidence in the democratic process and called for a transparent electoral system.
He challenged the ruling party to ensure that the next election is free and fair, saying that the outcome would ultimately reflect the will of the people.
“With their 30 governors, they should make the election free and fair and see who wins. Bring the ball to the middle of the field, declare it started, and let’s see what happens,” he said.
Obi concluded his speech by reaffirming his commitment to the 2027 presidential race.
“I want to announce to you all that no matter what they do, I must contest the election,” he stated.
His remarks have continued to generate discussions among political observers and supporters across the country, as preparations for the 2027 general election gradually begin to shape Nigeria’s political landscape.