Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 presidential hopeful, Peter Obi, has officially confirmed his intention to run for president again in 2027 under the Labour Party (LP). His declaration comes amidst growing tensions within the party and ongoing efforts to form a united opposition ahead of the next general election.
Obi, who emerged as a formidable third-force candidate in 2023 with over six million votes, made it clear that he remains committed to the Labour Party and will not abandon the platform despite internal disagreements and calls for a merger.
Party Ticket No Longer Reserved
In March 2024, the Labour Party had announced that its presidential ticket for 2027 was reserved for Obi. However, this decision was reversed in September by the party’s National Executive Council (NEC), which insisted that all positions, including the presidential ticket, would be open to all qualified Nigerians. LP National Chairman Julius Abure said the move was necessary to uphold internal democracy and transparency.
Tensions deepened after Obi and Abia State Governor Alex Otti reportedly held an unsanctioned meeting to form a caretaker committee for the party, a move the party leadership described as unconstitutional and divisive.
Opposition Coalition Talks Ongoing
Despite the unrest within the LP, Obi has been in active talks with major opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, exploring the possibility of a united front to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
While a formal coalition is yet to be confirmed, many observers believe such an alliance could shift the political balance ahead of the election. Still, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), a major stakeholder in the party, insists Obi does not need a coalition to defeat the incumbent, citing his wide popularity and appeal among Nigerians.
A Race to Watch
As 2027 draws closer, Obi’s renewed candidacy sets the stage for another high-stakes presidential race. With internal party contests likely and the APC already endorsing President Tinubu for re-election, Nigeria’s political terrain is gearing up for intense competition.
Peter Obi’s decision to remain with the Labour Party signals his confidence in the platform and his readiness to once again challenge the status quo.