Peter Obi has firmly shut down widespread speculations suggesting he may run as Atiku Abubakar’s running mate in the 2027 general elections, declaring that he is fully committed to pursuing the presidency himself. Speaking on Channels TV’s Politics Today on Sunday, July 6, 2025, the former Labour Party presidential candidate stated emphatically, “I am going to run for president. Nobody has discussed being Atiku’s running mate with me.”
Addressing questions about his alignment with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, Obi made it clear that his collaboration with the movement is not anti-party activity but a strategy to build a credible political front. “Working with the ADC coalition is not against Labour Party interests. Our focus is unity, competence, and capacity,” he said.
The ADC-led coalition, which includes prominent figures across opposition parties and civil society blocs, is working toward a single, formidable ticket for 2027. Obi explained that the coalition’s goal is to rescue Nigeria with a president who has both the competence to lead and the compassion to heal. “We’re not forming a group to oppose anyone. We’re forming a team to save Nigeria,” he declared.
He dismissed assumptions linking him to a return as running mate to Atiku Abubakar, with whom he contested in 2019 under the PDP. “People should stop speculating. I’ve made my intentions clear. I’m not looking for a vice presidential slot. I’m looking to serve as president,” he said.
This comes amid a rising wave of speculation following Atiku’s closed-door meetings with political allies and comments by PDP insiders hinting at a possible alliance with Obi to boost voter strength in the South-East. However, Obi’s latest remarks signal a decisive rejection of that narrative, asserting himself as a frontrunner, not a backup.
Obi also reiterated the importance of building a people-driven political revolution and not one based on recycled deals or elite consensus. “The problem with this country is that the people at the top are always planning around themselves. We are planning around Nigeria,” he said, drawing strong reactions and applause from social media users.
With his base still energized from the 2023 election and his popularity surging among youth and professionals, Obi’s declaration may set the tone for a highly contested 2027 race—one that could force a reshuffling of alliances and compel other parties to rethink their strategies.
