Political economist and public affairs commentator Prof. Pat Utomi has publicly declared his support for Peter Obi's presidential ambition ahead of Nigeria's 2027 general election, attaching a firm condition that could lead him to withdraw his endorsement. Utomi made his position known through his official X (formerly Twitter) account, stating he felt it was important to clarify his stance as political activity around the 2027 race continues to intensify.
Obi, who was ratified as the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) on May 29, 2026, remains a central figure in Nigeria's opposition politics. Utomi's declaration positions him alongside other top contenders, including President Bola Tinubu and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, as the political landscape for the next election takes shape.
Utomi's Firm Stance on Obi's Role
Utomi was unequivocal in his support, saying, "Peter Obi has my support for the presidency." However, he drew a clear line regarding Obi's potential role in any coalition. "But my position is clear, I am not supporting the idea of Peter Obi becoming somebody else's Vice President. The day Peter Obi accepts a Vice Presidential position, I will walk away from his corner. I have said this plainly, and I stand by it," Utomi asserted.
This is not the first time Utomi has articulated this position. During a January 2026 interview, he made the same warning, indicating he would withdraw his backing if Obi accepted a running-mate role under another candidate. His latest statement comes as opposition forces continue internal consultations and realignments, with Utomi reportedly involved in discussions aimed at producing a single opposition candidate for the presidential race.
Leadership Quality Over Personal Loyalty
Utomi emphasized that his support is not driven by personal loyalty but by his assessment of Nigeria's leadership needs. "My concern is not about personalities. It is about the kind of leadership Nigeria needs and the direction in which we want our country to go," he explained. This rationale underscores his broader vision for the country's political future as the 2027 election cycle approaches.
In a separate but related call, Utomi used the statement to push for a broader conversation about the age of those seeking executive office in Nigeria. He argued that the presidency should not serve as a political retirement destination, stating, "I have also argued that we should begin to rethink the age of those seeking executive office. The Nigerian presidency should not become a retirement home for politicians."
Proposed Age Limit for Presidential and Governorship Candidates
Utomi proposed capping eligibility for presidential and governorship candidates at 70 years of age, saying Nigeria's future demands forward-looking leadership rather than a recycling of the same political figures. "I believe there should be a serious national conversation about limiting presidential and gubernatorial candidates to those aged 70 or below. Nigeria needs leadership that is focused on the future, not simply another cycle of political succession," he said.
Utomi closed by inviting Nigerians to scrutinize the principles behind his positions as the country moves closer to the 2027 election cycle. "These are principles I have stated publicly, and Nigerians should judge them for themselves," he remarked.
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that ChatGPT predicted the All Progressives Congress (APC) would likely win Nigeria's 2027 presidential election, using the Four Horsemen framework. The AI cited the opposition coalition but said the APC has the edge due to possible low voter turnout and the Tinubu administration's efforts to stabilize the economy.
