Peter Obi, former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, says he will contest the 2027 presidential election, declining to comment on remarks by Atiku Abubakar that the next poll could be his final attempt at the presidency.
Obi spoke in an interview with Symfoni Media, where he confirmed his intention to run but avoided speculation about possible ticket arrangements within the opposition coalition.
“I can only tell you that I’m contesting the election for the office of the president,” he said.
His comments come after Atiku said in an interview on Arise TV that the 2027 election would be his last shot at the presidency, noting that he would be 84 years old by 2031.
When asked if he would accept to run as Atiku’s vice-presidential candidate if offered, Obi declined to give a direct answer, saying discussions have not reached that stage.
“At this stage, we’re not there yet,” he said.
The former Anambra governor described Atiku as a respected leader but stressed that the focus should remain on the broader goal of building a credible political alternative.
Obi, who is vying for the presidency under the ADC, said the process that produces candidates is more important than the outcome, insisting that only a fair and transparent primary can command legitimacy.
“You cannot jump into the house through the window and start cleaning it,” he said. “The process must be right.”
He added that he would only accept the outcome of a process that is credible and transparent, noting that past political experiences have shown the dangers of flawed systems.
Obi said his campaign would be based on his qualifications and record, expressing confidence in his chances of securing the party’s ticket.
