Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has addressed merger suggestions from Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Obi emphasized that he would only support a merger aimed at improving the lives of Nigerian masses.
During an interview on Noire TV-Global Black TV over the weekend, Obi stressed that his political ambition is not driven by desperation to become president. Instead, he is focused on making Nigeria work, particularly for the poor.
Obi acknowledged Atiku’s gesture of support for his candidacy as a southeastern representative in the 2027 presidential election.
Obi said: “I commend him. And I’m grateful for his statements. Especially where he said he will support me if it (the presidential ticket) goes to the South-East.”
He appreciated Atiku’s idea of uniting opposition parties to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) but maintained a clear stance on the purpose of any potential merger.
He elaborated that any merger should aim to govern Nigeria effectively and unlock its potential for the betterment of all citizens. Obi firmly cautioned of a merger solely for electoral gain or power consolidation.
“If the merger is to be able to govern Nigeria properly, unlock all those things that will make Nigeria a better place, I’m for it,” he stated. “If it’s just a merger for election or state capture, I’m not for it or part of it, I don’t want to be part of anything like that,” Obi concluded.
