Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has vehemently denied reports suggesting he is opposed to the idea of a political coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections. The former Anambra State governor, who has been vocal about his vision for a “New Nigeria,” clarified his position in a series of statements following what he described as a misrepresentation of his views by some media outlets.
Speaking via his official social media handle on Tuesday, Obi expressed his frustration with the portrayal of his earlier comments and sought to set the record straight. He stressed that he is not against the formation of a coalition, but rather opposed to alliances driven solely by the desire to seize power.
“I have observed that my honest interview was misquoted by many media outlets, creating a false narrative that misrepresents my position,” Obi wrote. “Let me set the record straight. I am not against coalition. In truth, I am for it, not for a power grab but to position Nigeria for greatness.”
Obi’s comments came on the heels of remarks he made at a national conference in Abuja, where he spoke on the importance of strengthening democracy and good governance in Nigeria. The conference, themed “Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy: Pathway to Good Governance and Political Integrity,” had attracted key political figures and experts, including opposition leaders, who have been exploring ways to collaborate ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Earlier in the week, Obi had rejected the idea of a coalition spearheaded by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other opposition leaders. This sparked widespread speculation and debate within political circles, with many interpreting his comments as a rejection of any coalition efforts ahead of the upcoming elections. Obi, however, swiftly sought to clarify that his opposition was not to the concept of a coalition, but rather to coalitions that lacked a meaningful agenda for the nation.
“Leadership must be about service, not self-interest,” Obi stated in his statement. “As I have always maintained, the New Nigeria is possible. But it requires us to change the way we think about power. It is not about grabbing it; it is about using it responsibly to transform lives and secure a brighter future for generations to come.”
Obi’s remarks underscore his ongoing commitment to the welfare of the Nigerian people, particularly the ordinary citizens he has consistently championed throughout his political career. While the idea of a coalition for the 2027 election has garnered attention, Obi has been clear that any such union must prioritize policies that directly address the country’s most pressing challenges.
For Obi, the focus must be on key issues such as access to quality healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation—areas that have long been neglected under successive administrations. “Any discussion about governance must be centred on what it means for everyday Nigerians and how it will address critical issues such as access to quality healthcare and education and pulling people out of poverty,” Obi emphasized.
This approach has set Obi apart from many of his political counterparts, who, according to him, have too often formed alliances driven by personal or political interests rather than a genuine commitment to the public good. “Too often in our nation’s history, individuals and groups have come together solely for the purpose of taking power for power’s sake,” he lamented. “Such endeavours, devoid of genuine purpose and vision, have only deepened our challenges, leaving the ordinary Nigerian to bear the brunt of bad governance.”
The political landscape in Nigeria is no stranger to coalitions, especially in the lead-up to presidential elections. The country’s complex electoral system and the diverse political dynamics have often led to the formation of alliances, which are seen as essential for securing victory. However, Obi’s call for a more strategic, purpose-driven coalition reflects growing frustrations with the political status quo.
His stance has sparked a broader conversation about the nature of political alliances in Nigeria, with some accusing the opposition of being too focused on the mechanics of power rather than the policies that will drive national transformation. “We must position ourselves for the future,” Obi continued, “but not just for power. It must be about a collective vision for the nation that focuses on the prosperity and upliftment of the Nigerian people.”
While Obi’s message has resonated with his supporters, it has also put him at odds with others who view coalitions as a necessary political maneuver to unseat the current ruling party. Despite this, Obi has remained steadfast in his belief that any political union formed for the 2027 elections must be grounded in shared values and a concrete plan for improving the lives of Nigerians.
