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Tag: Peter Obi

  • The Futility of the ADC Coalition: Why Obi, Atiku, others cannot match Tinubu

    The Futility of the ADC Coalition: Why Obi, Atiku, others cannot match Tinubu

    • By SF Ojo Emmanuel

    The recent political maneuverings by opposition figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and their cohorts under the guise of a new coalition with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) might offer a fleeting sense of purpose, but it lacks the substance, credibility, and leadership vision required to mount any serious challenge to the administration of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    It is increasingly clear to discerning Nigerians that neither Atiku nor Obi commands the depth of leadership acumen or the strategic political architecture necessary to navigate the complexities of modern governance. Their track records, both in public office and in opposition politics, speak more to personal ambitions and recycled rhetoric than to pragmatic solutions. What they lack is not just grassroots connection but the economic intellect and executive boldness needed to lift a nation—qualities that Asiwaju Tinubu continues to demonstrate with measured consistency.

    Today, President Tinubu is steadily managing the nation’s economy back from the brink of collapse. When he assumed office, Nigeria’s fiscal health was teetering on the edge of disaster, almost comatose due to years of mismanagement and lack of structural reforms. Yet, through deliberate policy choices, institutional reforms, and a dogged commitment to long-term stability, Tinubu is building a resilient economy—one that can withstand shocks, promote investment, and foster real growth.

    Read Also: 210 terrorists surrender to troops in Lake Chad region

    The attempt by the so-called coalition to rebrand old faces with familiar failings cannot overshadow the ongoing efforts of a president who understands not just the politics of power but the socioeconomic mechanics of governance. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains unmatched in capacity, clarity of vision, and national appeal. His leadership is not a product of media hype or online sentiment—it is anchored in decades of proven political engineering, economic foresight, and nationalistic resolve.

    In the end, no coalition of yesterday’s men can stand against the momentum of renewed hope. The future belongs to leaders who build, not those who merely criticise.

    .This article is a personal political opinion from SF Ojo Emmanuel, a Senior Special Assistant on New Media to Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State

  • Peter Obi submits single-term proposal to opposition coalition

    Peter Obi submits single-term proposal to opposition coalition

    Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, has formally submitted his single-tenure proposal to the opposition coalition for consideration.

    The revelation was made by Dr. Yinusa Tanko, national coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, during the conferment of a chieftaincy title, ‘Sarki Maskan’ (War Hero), on Obi.

    According to Tanko, Obi is committed to serving only one four-year term if elected president, insisting that Nigeria’s transformation does not require more time.

    “We have presented it to the coalition. It is there for them to make a decision. But we are confident it can work,” Tanko stated. “This is a pronouncement rooted in integrity, and Peter Obi embodies that. What Nigeria needs now are leaders with integrity.”

    Tanko added that although the single-term idea is not constitutional, Obi remains resolute, “Obi has said clearly — even though the single term is not in the constitution — that he is committing himself to serve only one tenure. He believes four years is more than enough to accomplish his mission. That shows you how prepared and focused he is.”

    Read Also: I will contest 2027 presidency – Peter Obi

    He emphasised Obi’s policy priorities, particularly in tackling infrastructure and the economy, “Even stabilising electricity alone will solve a multitude of problems.

    He is promising that under his leadership, Nigeria will become an exporting country again. Planes will no longer leave our airports empty.”

    Tanko concluded that Obi’s proposal reflects a focused and disciplined approach to governance, aligned with the broader aspirations of reform-minded Nigerians.

  • I will do one term in presidency, says Obi

    I will do one term in presidency, says Obi

    • Ex-Anambra governor opposes anti-Tinubu coalition

    Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi has expressed his willingness to be a one-term President if elected in 2027.

    Obi, as well as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi, and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai are putting together a coalition to possibly wrest federal power from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general election.

    Speaking during a Twitter Space hosted by Parallel Facts on Sunday, Obi said any candidate from the South elected President in 2027 must be prepared to leave office on May 28, 2031, in line with the “unwritten power-sharing agreement” and the zoning principle.

    He added that the zoning principle, which alternates the presidency between the North and the South, is a commitment he has long championed.

    Should the coalition hand him the ticket for the 2027 presidency on the back of that gentleman’s agreement, and should he win the election, Obi said he would not stay a day longer in office.

    “If you take the arrangement, which is understandably what you can call an unwritten agreement that power would go to the South and the North, and if that arrangement is to be followed strictly, you would see that anybody, not just me, who happens to come from the South as president in 2027 must be ready to leave on the 28 of May (not 29), 2031,” he said.

    READ ALSO: Umar unveils 38 ‘unsung June 12 heroes’ in military

    Also, Obi has dismissed talks of a joint ticket with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2027 election.

    He promised not to be part of any coalition that is not about stopping the killings in Benue, Zamfara, or how to revive the economy, make industries productive, and put food on the table of Nigerians.

    The former Anambra State governor said this on Sunday night when he appeared on X (formerly Twitter) space to answer questions from supporters.

  • I will contest 2027 presidency – Peter Obi

    I will contest 2027 presidency – Peter Obi

    Former Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi has confirmed he will contest the 2027 presidential election, pledging to serve only one term if elected and promising to restore national stability within two years.

    Obi addressed supporters during a live X Space interaction on Sunday where he also dismissed reports suggesting a joint ticket with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

    According to a statement on Monday by Ibrahim Umar, spokesperson for the Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR), Obi said: “If the coalition is not about stopping the killings in Benue and Zamfara, how to revive our economy, how to make our industries productive, how to put food on the tables of Nigerians… Count me out. Nigeria is currently at war. We need to do something about it.”

    He urged citizens to unite for national transformation, “I will bring stability in Nigeria within two years in office. Leaders of Nigeria should sit down in Nigeria and fix Nigeria.”

    Obi also reaffirmed commitment to zoning principles, “I believe in the rotation of government between North and South. I implemented it in Anambra as a governor.”

    Commenting on the leadership crisis in the Labour Party, Obi stated that efforts were ongoing to secure the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) recognition of the Nenadi Usman-led faction in accordance with a Supreme Court ruling.

    On President Bola Tinubu’s international travels, Obi criticize8d the president’s priorities. “In two years, Tinubu has not spent one night in any state in Nigeria apart from Lagos, yet he is going to spend eight nights in St. Lucia, a place smaller than Ajegunle,” Obi remarked. “St. Lucia is about the size of the 10th largest city of Nigeria, Ilorin.”

    Looking ahead to 2027, Obi said: “We will do things differently in 2027. We will follow a non-violent approach and insist that the right thing will be done before the result announcement in Abuja. Our votes in 2027 will count, and we will ensure they count.”

    He outlined his first 100-day priorities, including security, education, poverty eradication, cost-cutting, and anti-corruption. “My family will not be involved in corruption. Funds [will] be channelled into key critical sectors,” he promised.

    Read Also: Lagos denies demolition of Peter Obi’s brother’s property

    Obi also pledged to uphold democratic integrity, “My presidency will ensure there is a strong opposition in party politics. There will be no defection of elected officials to other parties when I am in charge.”

    Critiquing the current state of governance, he added, “Imagine in this country, people are dying in Benue, Borno, and our leaders are commissioning bus stops and holidaying.”

    He concluded with a reminder of his track record: “My past speaks loudly for me. Wherever there was an issue in Anambra State, I was there physically. Anybody who wants to serve should be ready to put even their life on the line for the lives of Nigerians.”

    “Nobody abroad takes you seriously if you don’t have a stable government,” Obi said.

  • Obi hails Ganduje’s resignation as APC national chairman

    Obi hails Ganduje’s resignation as APC national chairman

    The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Mr Peter Obi, has commended Dr Abdullahi Ganduje for resigning as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Ganduje submitted his resignation letter to the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) through its National Secretary, Sen. Ajibola Bashiru, on Friday.

    The former Kano State governor cited health reasons for his decision to step down.

    Obi, a former governor of Anambra, gave his commendation in a post on his X handle on Friday.

    According to him, he read a news report that the APC National Chairman, Ganduje, resigned from his position with immediate effect, citing health challenges as the reason.

    “I must commend Ganduje for prioritising his health above all else.

    “With his health reportedly in decline, it is both wise and honourable to step aside, knowing that he may no longer be able to render the level of service required by the party, the people, and the nation.

    “By this exemplary action, Ganduje has thrown a challenge to other leaders who, due to health-related issues, are no longer able to deliver optimally.

    Read Also: Dalori in as Ganduje quits APC chair on health grounds

    “I sincerely hope they take a cue from him”, he said.

    He explained that the challenges confronting Nigeria required leaders who were competent, physically and mentally fit with the capacity and agility to respond decisively and promptly to pressing issues.

    “At this critical point and difficult time, we can no longer afford leadership defined by medical tourism, long holidays, or absenteeism caused by age-related ailments.

    “These things are taking a serious toll on our development. May God Almighty grant Dr Ganduje a peaceful and fulfilling retirement”, he added.

    (NAN)

  • Peter Obi’s contradiction, double standards or strategic moves ahead of 2027 Presidential Election?

    Peter Obi’s contradiction, double standards or strategic moves ahead of 2027 Presidential Election?

    The Trumpet

    As Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 general elections, the political landscape is heating up. A recent meeting of opposition heavyweights in Abuja has sparked a whirlwind of speculation, strategy, and scrutiny.

    The Trumpet gathered that, among the prominent figures present were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Minister Rotimi Amaechi, political strategist Kashim Ibrahim-Imam and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi.

    Peter Obi had publicly dismissed any notion of prioritizing political positions. “Politics for me is not about positions. It’s about doing the right thing,” he stated during a philanthropic event in Abuja. He emphasized his focus on tackling poverty, poor healthcare, and the lack of quality education.

    “I’m in a coalition against hunger, not for vice presidency,” Obi asserted, sidestepping a direct confirmation or denial of the alleged VP offer.

    However, Obi in another statement reaffirmed his commitment to the Labour Party, assuring his supporters that he will contest the 2027 presidential election on the party’s platform.

    Obi made this known while addressing some of his supporters in a viral video circulating on social media on Saturday.

    Asked which party he intends to contest the 2027 elections, Obi said, “I will still continue to run in the Labour Party. I’m a member of the Labour Party.”

    Yet, he attended the formidable opposition coalition meeting held in Abuja on Sunday. Which has now drawn attention and raised questions.

    In the complex theatre of Nigerian politics, few figures have cultivated an image of moral clarity and reformist zeal as effectively as Peter Obi. To many, he is the straight-talking, data-driven symbol of a new Nigeria—an outsider challenging a decaying system. But beneath the polished rhetoric and carefully curated persona lies a more complicated reality that raises questions about the authenticity of his political brand.

    The Abuja gathering, held at the Continental Hotel under the banner of the National Political Consultative Group (North), aimed to build a formidable coalition capable of unseating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.

    Earlier, Atiku had offered Obi the vice-presidential slot under a single-term agreement. The proposal—first discussed during a private meeting in the UK earlier this year—allegedly includes Atiku’s commitment to serve only one term before handing over the reins to Obi.

    “There’s a growing consensus that Obi has accepted the VP offer,” a source claimed. “They are working toward signing a formal agreement.”

    If true, this move would revive the Atiku-Obi ticket seen in 2019 under the PDP. However, internal tensions within both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP) are prompting coalition leaders to consider an alternative platform—likely the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Meetings with ADC leadership have intensified, with party chairman Ralph Nwosu confirming constitutional reforms to accommodate new entrants.

    Obidient Movement Rejects VP Speculation

    The Obidient Movement quickly issued a firm statement refuting reports of Obi accepting a vice-presidential role under Atiku. Nana Kazaure, the movement’s Strategic Communications Director, dismissed the reports as unfounded and misleading.

    “Mr. Peter Obi remains focused on real change and addressing systemic failures—not personal political ambitions,” Kazaure stated. “He will announce any decision about his political path himself.”

    Babachir Lawal: Coalition Is Bigger Than Atiku

    Former SGF Babachir Lawal, a vocal Peter Obi supporter, dismissed claims that the coalition revolves solely around Atiku’s 2027 ambitions.

    “Obi and Amaechi are not there to hand over the ticket to Atiku,” Lawal told the Nigerian Tribune. “This is a democratic platform where anyone can emerge as the presidential candidate through due process.”

    Lawal revealed that the coalition plans to hold internal primaries and conventions to select candidates at all levels, ensuring transparency and inclusivity.

    ADC Emerges as Preferred Coalition Platform

    Once seen as a fringe party, the ADC is now gaining traction as the possible vessel for the opposition alliance. Chairman Ralph Nwosu confirmed that reforms are underway to make the party more accessible to new entrants, including waiving the two-year membership requirement for candidacy.

    “I’m stepping down to allow fresh leadership to drive the coalition agenda,” Nwosu announced.

    PDP and Coalition Leaders Confident of Victory

    PDP leaders believe that a united opposition front could deliver a decisive defeat to the APC in 2027. “If Atiku, Obi, and others truly align, they could win before 1 PM on election day,” said PDP Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor.

    He cited public disillusionment, widespread hunger, and worsening insecurity as key drivers that could tilt the vote against the APC.

    Obi Signals Retirement by 70, Pushes for Youth Inclusion

    Peter Obi has also used recent public appearances to advocate for age limits in politics, stating that at 65 in 2027, he would prefer not to run into his 70s. “Nigeria needs a generational shift,” he emphasized.

    Strategy or Contradiction?

    While Peter Obi’s words and actions suggest a commitment to principles over politics, his continued engagement with opposition coalition leaders—including Atiku—is raising eyebrows. Whether this is a calculated move to unify the opposition or a contradiction of his earlier stances remains to be seen.

    For now, both Atiku and Obi are keeping their cards close to their chests, while Nigerians watch closely, hopeful for a viable alternative in 2027.

    Obi’s image as a principled, new-breed politician begins to falter under closer examination. A notable example is the 2021 Pandora Papers leak, which revealed his ownership of secret offshore companies and undeclared assets—actions that appear to contravene Nigeria’s code of conduct for public officials.

    Rather than providing full accountability, Obi deflected the criticism and downplayed the implications. For someone who frequently champions transparency and fiscal responsibility, this episode casts a shadow over his self-styled reputation for integrity.

    While he continues to inspire a devoted following, particularly among young Nigerians, the contrast between his public proclamations and past conduct fuels ongoing debate: is he a genuine agent of change or simply a familiar figure in new robes—an elite recast as a populist reformer?

  • Lagos denies demolition of Peter Obi’s brother’s property

    Lagos denies demolition of Peter Obi’s brother’s property

    The Lagos state government has denied any involvement in the alleged demolition of a property said to belong to the brother of Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi.

    Obi had alleged that a property belonging to his younger brother was demolished in Lagos without legal backing.

    He said the property, owned by his brother’s company, had stood for over 15 years before it was brought down.

    He alleged that the demolition was carried out by unidentified persons acting on a vague court judgment that did not mention his brother, the property, or contain any demolition order.

    He said, “This morning, my youngest brother called me frantically, informing me that a group of people had invaded his company property in Ikeja, Lagos, and were demolishing the building.

    However, in a statement issued on Thursday by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, the government described Obi’s comments as “unverified and misleading.”

    Omotoso stated that the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), or any other agency under the state government, did not carry out the said demolition.

    Read Also: Peter Obi betrayed me, says Kenneth Okonkwo

    “The Lagos State Government is compelled to address the recent allegations made by Mr. Peter Obi regarding the demolition of a property belonging to his brother. We wish to categorically state that the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) or any other arm of the Lagos State Government did not carry out the said demolition,” the statement read.

    The Special Adviser on eGIS and Urban Development, Dr. Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, who oversees LASBCA, also confirmed that the agency had no involvement in the incident.

    Omotoso expressed concern that such claims were made without due verification, adding that the state remained committed to law and order.

    “We find it disturbing that Mr. Peter Obi would make such allegations without verifying the facts,” he said.

    The commissioner assured the public that the state government would not condone any form of lawlessness and that anyone found culpable in illegal demolitions would be brought to justice.

    To clarify the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident, Omotoso said the Permanent Secretary in the Office of Urban Development, Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki had been directed to initiate a full investigation through LASBCA.

  • Peter Obi betrayed me, says Kenneth Okonkwo

    Peter Obi betrayed me, says Kenneth Okonkwo

    • Spills shocking details on LP rift

    Veteran Nollywood actor and former spokesperson for the Labour Party’s presidential campaign, Kenneth Okonkwo, has alleged that Peter Obi betrayed him by backing the Julius Abure-led faction of the party, despite earlier warnings against such alignment.

    In an interview with Symfoni, which gained traction over the weekend, Okonkwo, who publicly resigned from the Labour Party in February, expressed disappointment with Obi’s decision to re-engage with the faction he believes is at the centre of the party’s internal crisis.

    He claimed that Obi ignored private counsel and returned to support the controversial leadership group led by Abure, allegedly after being misled into believing the faction had been recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    “I can state without hesitation, Peter Obi betrayed me,” Okonkwo said.

    “He was deceived into thinking INEC had validated that group. I reminded him that even if that were true, it shouldn’t erase the integrity he publicly upholds.

    “These individuals have no regard for internal democracy. I warned that associating with them could destroy his political credibility,” he explained.

    Okonkwo said he made his concerns clear in private conversations with Obi and other close associates, describing the Abure-led leadership as tools in the hands of external political forces determined to undermine Obi’s movement.

    According to him, Obi disregarded all the red flags and within three days visited the Abure camp, giving it public endorsement; an action Okonkwo said he viewed as a fundamental breach of trust.

    “To add insult to injury,” he noted, “a member of that same executive sent me the video of Obi’s visit as a mockery, knowing full well I had stood my ground in opposition to them.”

    Okonkwo also stated that Obi only tried to appear neutral after INEC distanced itself from the faction.

    “But I told him neutrality is not an option in this situation,” he added.

    Read Also: PDP begs Peter Obi, others to return

    The Labour Party continues to grapple with a leadership crisis that has splintered its national structure.

    The Abure-led wing has faced criticism for alleged financial impropriety and lack of internal democratic processes—issues that clash with the party’s public image as a reform-driven platform.

    Okonkwo, once seen as a firm believer in Obi’s political ideals, said his decision to leave the Labour Party was driven by these unresolved contradictions and Obi’s unwillingness to confront them

  • Portable disappointed over flight encounter with Peter Obi

    Portable disappointed over flight encounter with Peter Obi

    Controversial singer Portable has expressed disappointment over his recent encounter with Labour Party(LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on a plane. 

    Despite flying first class and Obi in economy, Portable claimed he only received a handshake from the politician.

    Read Also: Portable slams Speed Darlington over alleged defilement of 15-year-old

    In a video shared online, Portable lamented that he expected more from Obi, contrasting his experience with what might have been if he had met President Bola Tinubu. 

    “The day I see Peter Obi, make I no lie, na handshake I collect. Na first class I dey, Peter Obi dey economy. I go greet Peter Obi, na only handshake e give me. If na Tinubu I go collect bundle…”, he said.

  • Obi, Otti responsible for our crisis, not Fed Govt, says LP

    Obi, Otti responsible for our crisis, not Fed Govt, says LP

    The Labour Party (LP) faction led by the National Chairman, Julius Abure, has accused its former Presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi and Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, of being responsible for the leadership crisis in the party.

    The party absolved the Federal Government and the All Progressives Congress (APC) of any blame.

    It further argued that the LP was at peace until Otti and Obi set up a caretaker committee while the tenure of the Abure leadership subsisted.

    Obi had in an interview on national television on Monday blamed the crisis in the LP on the Federal Government, whom he accused of using infiltrators to destabilise the party.

    “The problem we have in LP is a problem instigated and sustained by the government of today,” he said.

    Read Also: Politicians exploiting Nigeria’s ethnic, religious fractionalization – Bishop

    In a statement yesterday, the National Secretary of the Abure faction, Umar Farouk Ibrahim, challenged Obi to provide proof.

    It stated: “The problem with the LP was not created by the ruling party. Rather, the problem in the Labour Party was created and sustained by Peter Obi and Dr. Alex Otti, the governor of Abia State, who is presently serving a suspension for anti-party activities.

    “We dare Obi to produce any tangible or intangible evidence which suggests remotely or otherwise that the Abure leadership of the LP is in bed with the APC-led government.

    “Nobody is infallible, and it behoves anyone who makes mistakes to be bold enough to own it. When good leaders fail, they should own up to their responsibilities. Obi failed to provide leadership for the party. He should own up to his mistakes.

    “It is, therefore, shameful for Obi and Dr. Otti to continue to accuse the government of infiltrating the Labour Party and by so doing demarketing the party.”

    The camp recalled the sacrifices the LP had to make in the past to accommodate Obi to contest the election in 2023.