I will still continue to run in the Labour Party. I’m a member of the Labour Party
Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in Nigeria’s 2023 general election, has confirmed that he intends to once again vie for the presidency in 2027.
In a recent interaction with his supporters captured in a widely circulated video on social media, Obi reaffirmed his loyalty to the Labour Party and emphasized his readiness to run on its platform in the upcoming election cycle.
When asked directly about his political alignment for the next election, Obi responded clearly: “I will still continue to run in the Labour Party. I’m a member of the Labour Party.”
This statement comes amid speculation and uncertainty surrounding internal conflicts within the party and Obi’s seeming detachment from its current leadership squabbles.
Addressing growing concerns over the persistent internal crises plaguing political parties, particularly the Labour Party (LP) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Obi pointed fingers at the Nigerian government.
He asserted that these issues are not merely organic or internal disputes but are instead the result of external interference orchestrated by elements within the government.
Obi remarked: “What is happening in the Labour Party and the PDP is caused by the government, quote me anywhere.” To support his claim, he recalled an experience during the administration of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.
Obi narrated that during a past crisis in the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Yar’Adua took a firm but fair stance by instructing the then-INEC Chairman, Prof. Maurice Iwu, to ensure political stability, thereby aiding the resolution of the issue.
He lamented that today’s political environment lacks such leadership resolve, allowing systemic problems to fester unchecked. According to Obi, “In all the parties, there are problems; these are deliberate problems caused by the system. These are some of the things I want to clean up if I have the opportunity.”
Obi stressed the importance of a vibrant and functional opposition as a critical component of a healthy democracy. He asserted that a political system cannot operate effectively in the absence of credible opposition parties.
His comments were a thinly veiled critique of the current political climate, which many observers argue has been characterized by ruling party dominance and suppression of dissent.
Additionally, Obi appealed to citizens—particularly the youth—not to lose faith in the electoral process. He underscored the need for active civic engagement and vigilance, noting that “even if agents are paid by political parties to look after their interests, the ultimate decision about whether the people’s votes count rests with voters.” He emphasized that systemic reform begins with an informed and empowered electorate willing to safeguard the integrity of the ballot box.
In a forward-looking reflection on his political future, Peter Obi advocated for the introduction of a retirement age for politicians seeking public office. He opined that there should be a reasonable age limit for those contesting elective positions, similar to other professional fields.
Noting his own age, Obi stated: “By the time the 2027 election holds, I would be 65 years old. I do not want to be contesting for elections in my 70s.” This remark highlights his belief in generational leadership transition and the need to groom younger, more dynamic leaders for the future.
In his concluding remarks, Obi appealed to Nigerian youths and advocates for reform not to lose hope or relent in their pursuit of change. He acknowledged that meaningful transformation will inevitably face resistance from entrenched interests—those who benefit from the existing flawed system. Nevertheless, he encouraged persistence, optimism, and collective action to steer the nation toward a better future.