Peter Obi Declares 2027 Presidential Ambition, Asserts Ballot Presence
Former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, has firmly announced his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election, emphasizing that no alleged obstacles will prevent him from appearing on the ballot. Speaking at the OBIDIENT Conference and the official declaration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Obi addressed his recent political moves and national concerns.
Obi's Party Switch and Electoral Challenges
Obi explained his departure from the Labour Party, citing information that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would not recognize the party's leadership if he remained. "I left LP when I got informed that as long as I remain in the party, INEC will not recognise its leadership, that the federal government doesn't want me on the ballot," he stated. He reassured supporters of his determination, saying, "I want to assure you that I will contest the coming election even if it is held in their bedroom, and if they don't want to transmit the results, we will transmit them for them."
Criticism of Tinubu's Borrowing Record
In his address, Obi criticized the current administration's borrowing practices, claiming it has accumulated more loans than previous governments. He highlighted that many of these loans are scheduled for repayment from 2045 to 2050, long after those responsible may be gone. "The current administration has collected more loans than every other administration, and most of these loans will be repaid from 2045 to 2050," Obi asserted.
Policy Priorities and Personal Accountability
Obi outlined his administration's focus areas if elected, prioritizing investment in education and healthcare to build strong human capital. He also shared his personal record on accountability, noting that as governor, he advised his wife to forgo the Office of First Lady since they were not elected together. Additionally, he claimed to have approved over 100 Certificates of Occupancy on government land without obtaining any for himself or his family.
Obidient Movement Mobilization and Protests
Tanko Yunusa, coordinator of the OBIDIENT Movement worldwide, urged supporters to intensify mobilization for the 2027 election and rally behind the ADC. Ben Smith, Akwa Ibom state coordinator, described the election as an opportunity for generational change, aiming to secure jobs, improve security, and restore hope. Earlier, Obi joined protesters at the National Assembly in Abuja, demanding real-time electronic transmission of election results, as part of a demonstration tagged "Occupy the National Assembly."
