The Presidency has dismissed concerns that Peter Obi could pose a significant challenge to President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election. Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, stated that the Tinubu administration is confident of its chances and believes its record in office will secure victory at the polls.
Presidency Confident in Performance Ahead of 2027
Dare made the remarks during an interview on Mic On Podcast with Seun Okinbaloye, emphasizing that the government is focused on delivering results rather than worrying about opposition figures. He said, “This government is not afraid of Peter Obi. He is not a nightmare to our government. Maybe before, Peter Obi was a threat, but right now, he is no threat because we stand on the solid ground of performance.”
Dare added that the government had studied Nigeria’s major challenges and introduced policies to address them. “We have been able to interrogate the problems of this country. Decisions are being taken, policies are being unfolded across the country, and we have a scorecard to show,” he said, asserting that the administration’s achievements would serve as evidence for voters in 2027.
Criticism of Obi’s Public Comments
The presidential aide also criticized Obi’s public statements and media appearances, describing them as lacking clarity. “Peter Obi is not a nightmare. Maybe you replace nightmare with nuisance because if you see some of his reactions, they are very pedantic. Sometimes you wonder. You listen to some of his interviews, ask him a question, and he goes in a roundabout direction that does not make sense,” Dare said.
Obi’s 2023 Lagos Victory Dismissed as One-Off
Dare addressed Obi’s performance in the 2023 presidential election, where the former Anambra governor defeated Tinubu in Lagos State. He expressed confidence that the outcome would not repeat in 2027. “Peter Obi defeated President Tinubu in Lagos in 2023. This is 2026; it can’t happen again,” Dare stated.
Analyst Suggests Obi Must Avoid Mistakes in 2027
Earlier, analyst Donald Okwuosa outlined five mistakes Peter Obi must avoid ahead of the 2027 elections, including weak party structure and funding issues. Okwuosa praised Obi’s choice of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso as running mate, saying the move could strengthen his northern support base. He advised Obi to improve mobilisation, documentation, and financial strategies to boost his chances.
Obi Vows to Contest 2027 Despite Legal Hurdles
Legit.ng previously reported that Peter Obi reacted after a court overturned the judgment recognising the Nigeria Democratic Congress as a political party ahead of the 2027 elections. The former Anambra governor vowed to remain on the ballot, alleging efforts to block his presidential ambition. Obi said he expected challenges but remained confident his political journey would continue despite legal hurdles.
