Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has dismissed concerns over former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s alleged interest in clinching the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking to newsmen during a visit to LEA Primary School in Kapwa, Abuja, Obi said he had no fears about Atiku’s political ambitions, describing him as a “respected elder brother.”
Obi’s response comes amid growing speculation that Atiku may seek to run under the ADC umbrella, especially as some of his loyalists from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have reportedly defected to join the emerging ADC coalition, a development that has unsettled some members of Obi’s support base.
Tensions escalated after Atiku recently told BBC Hausa that he would not step aside for any aspirant unless defeated at the ADC primaries, a statement widely interpreted as a declaration of intent for 2027.
Former senator, Shehu Sani, also weighed in via a post on X (formerly Twitter), warning that any candidate would face a tough challenge beating Atiku in a primary race.
But Obi played down the perceived rivalry, insisting the coalition forming around the ADC is focused on rescuing Nigeria, not political turf wars.
“Let me tell you, Atiku is a very dear elder brother and leader that I have a lot of respect for. I’m a member of the Labour Party and part of the coalition forming the ADC for the 2027 presidential election,” Obi said.
“Other parties and people are going to be part of it. All of us are coming together for a common purpose. That’s my belief.”
He emphasized that for the country to move forward, credible individuals across party lines must unite.
“For us to do the right thing for the country, all well-meaning people will have to come together to rescue the country.”
On whether he would contest in 2027, Obi was direct:
“I’m contesting, and I’m sure I will be. People will have to look at who is competent, who has the capacity. And I think I’m qualified. I have the capacity to do the job. I’m saying it over and over again in four years, I can change the trajectory of Nigeria in a positive way.”
He also urged a shift in national discourse from politics to real issues affecting Nigerians.
“We’ve talked too much politics in this country. I was in some villages in Anambra State and could see poverty everywhere. We’re talking about party chairmen, primaries, and things like that.
I want the new Nigeria to be focused on what will benefit the people.” he added.
