Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has officially declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election. He made this announcement during an X Space conversation on Sunday night, December 28, 2025.
Not a Vice President, But a Presidential Candidate
Obi was emphatic about the nature of his ambition, ruling out the possibility of being a running mate to any other candidate. He insisted that he would not be a vice-president, stating that his extensive experience in governance and business was not acquired for a second-in-command role.
"I am not travelling round the world to learn governance to be Vice president," Obi declared during the interactive session. He emphasized his belief in his capacity to lead, saying, "I know how to turn Nigeria around. I built my business from scratch and have more experience than any candidate, including the sitting President."
Clarification on ADC Membership and Coalition
Addressing widespread reports that he was set to defect to the Africa Democratic Congress (ADC), Obi provided a crucial clarification. He stated that he was not joining the ADC but had always been a part of the coalition from its inception.
"I am not joining the ADC. I can't re-join what I am already a part of, I have been part of the coalition from day one," he explained. This statement aimed to correct media narratives suggesting a formal defection event was scheduled for Wednesday, December 31, 2025, in Enugu State.
However, he underscored the need for the ADC to present a distinct alternative to the electorate. "I believe that the ADC must offer something different in 2027. I am not in this coalition to grab power. I am here because I want to make Nigeria work," Obi asserted.
Expected Movement and Political Realignments
Despite Obi's personal clarification, reports indicate a significant political realignment is underway. Sources suggest that Obi will be moving to the ADC alongside several serving senators and lawmakers originally elected on the Labour Party platform, as well as remnants of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Southeast.
Names mentioned include Senator Victor Umeh (Anambra Central), Senator Tony Nwoye (Anambra North), and Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (Abia South). PDP chieftain Ben Obi and members of the Obidient movement in the region are also reportedly part of the movement. The status of Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, remains unclear.
Obi's spokesperson, Val Obienyim, had earlier confirmed the defection plans to The Guardian in a text message on Sunday morning, stating simply, "Yes, it is true."
In his remarks, Obi also maintained respect for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, calling him a "respected leader," and dismissed reports of anyone in the ADC stepping down for him, highlighting a collective agreement to work together.
With his declaration, Peter Obi has firmly placed himself in the center of the evolving political landscape for the 2027 general elections, promising a campaign focused on offering a substantive difference in governance.
