Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has dismissed rising speculation that he could lose the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential ticket to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Obi, speaking in an interview with Sunday PUNCH during his visit to LEA Primary School in Kapwa, Abuja, said he harbours no fear over Atiku’s political influence, describing the former VP as a “dear elder brother and respected leader.”
This comes amid growing concern from Obi’s supporters following reports that some Atiku loyalists from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have defected to the ADC coalition. The anxiety further escalated after Atiku, in a recent BBC Hausa interview, stated he would not step aside for any aspirant unless defeated in the primaries.
Former Senator Shehu Sani also weighed in, warning on X (formerly Twitter) that Atiku would be hard to beat in any party’s primary contest.
Despite these developments, Obi remained confident, stressing that the coalition being built around the ADC is focused on national progress not political rivalry.
“Atiku is a very dear elder brother and a respected leader. I’m in the Labour Party and part of the coalition forming around the ADC for the 2027 election,” Obi said.
“It’s not about who takes what ticket. It’s about uniting well-meaning Nigerians to rescue this country.”
The former Anambra State governor also reaffirmed his intention to run for president again, regardless of the political platform.
“Yes, I’m contesting. People will have to assess who is competent and capable. I believe I am. I have the capacity, and in four years, I can change Nigeria’s trajectory,” he stated.
Obi further urged Nigerians to move beyond partisan politics and focus on leadership that delivers real value to citizens.
“We talk too much about party chairmen and primaries while poverty continues to grow. We need a shift towards issue-based politics one that puts the people first.”
Obi and Atiku were both defeated by President Bola Tinubu in the fiercely contested 2023 presidential election. Obi, powered by a strong youth movement, came third, narrowly behind Atiku.
As the race for 2027 gradually heats up, Obi’s message remains centered on unity, competence, and a people-driven vision for Nigeria.
