The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has assured his supporters of his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election, urging Nigerians to unite in rescuing the country for future generations.
Obi made the declaration in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, during the OBIDIENT Conference and the official launch of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) initiative themed “Activating the PO Effect in ADC.”
He warned that decades of mismanagement could negatively impact the youth and the nation’s future.
He alleged that the Federal Government is opposed to his candidacy but insisted he would contest even if elections were held figuratively “in their bedroom.”
Obi criticized the current administration for accumulating significant loans, noting that most will be repaid between 2045 and 2050, long after the officials responsible have left office.
On leaving the Labour Party, Obi explained that the party’s leadership issues hindered his recognition by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
“Democracy must work. I left the Labour Party when I learned that as long as I remained, INEC would not recognise its leadership.
The Federal Government doesn’t want me on the ballot paper, but I will contest the coming election regardless,” he said.
He stressed the importance of real-time online transmission of election results in 2027.
Obi promised that, if elected, his administration would prioritize investments in education and health, emphasizing that intentional investment in human capital is key to national development.
He also pledged to tackle poverty and reduce criminality through strategic policies.
He further stated that he plans to tour the entire country and visit higher institutions to understand grassroots challenges firsthand, asserting that the focus of his campaign is the well-being and future of Nigerians.
Regarding corruption, Obi highlighted his personal example, noting that during his tenure as governor of Anambra State, neither he nor his family benefited from government allocations.
“If you find any misuse, petition me to the appropriate authority,” he said.
Addressing participants, Tanko Yunusa, coordinator of the Obidient Movement worldwide, urged Nigerians to mobilize nationwide for the 2027 elections and to unite under the ADC as the vehicle for political transformation.
Ben Smith, Akwa Ibom State coordinator, added that internal divisions could undermine the collective goal of a new Nigeria.
