Former Anambra State Governor and prominent politician, Mr Peter Obi, has declared his intention to contest as a presidential candidate in the 2027 general elections, making it clear that he will not accept a vice-presidential role.
Obi made this declaration while addressing supporters at a campaign event for candidates of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) during the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections. The event took place at the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).
Speaking to party members and supporters, Obi said his political ambition is focused on leading the country and not playing a supporting role. He stressed that his involvement in the ADC is with the aim of contesting for the highest office in the land.
According to him, the AMAC Area Council election is not just a local contest but part of a wider political journey aimed at building support ahead of the 2027 presidential race. He urged residents and party faithful to vote for the ADC candidate, saying the outcome would have a direct impact on his political plans.
“This coming election, support us in AMAC; it will help me. Your support in AMAC is critical to our journey. I am involved and contesting the coming election as number one. When I come back, you will see. I assure you,” Obi told the crowd.
His statement is seen as a clear rejection of any plan that would make him a running mate to another presidential candidate in 2027. In recent months, there have been speculations that Obi could be considered for a vice-presidential slot as political alignments ahead of the next general elections begin to take shape.
Obi’s declaration has further energized his supporters, especially members of the Obidient Movement, a political support group that emerged during the 2023 general elections. The movement, largely driven by young Nigerians and urban voters, has continued to push for Obi to contest again as a presidential candidate.
Many of his supporters believe Obi remains one of the most popular political figures in the country and insist that he should not settle for a vice-presidential role under any party arrangement.
Following his remarks in Abuja, pressure has increased on the leadership of the ADC to adopt Obi as its presidential candidate for 2027. Supporters argue that his popularity, national spread and message of good governance make him the party’s strongest option.
However, the ADC is also home to other well-known politicians who are believed to have presidential ambitions. Among them are former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi. Both men have contested the presidency in the past or shown strong interest in leading the country.
This situation sets the stage for a possible internal contest within the party as the 2027 elections draw closer. Political analysts say the ADC could face tough decisions in managing the ambitions of its top figures while trying to build a united front.
Peter Obi first gained national attention during the 2023 presidential election, where he ran on a platform focused on economic reform, anti-corruption and improved governance. Although he did not win the election, his campaign attracted massive support, especially among young voters, professionals and Nigerians in the diaspora.
Since the 2023 polls, Obi has remained active in national discussions, often speaking on issues such as inflation, unemployment, debt, education and healthcare. He has also continued to engage with supporters across the country, fueling speculation about another presidential run.
His move to position himself clearly as a presidential contender ahead of 2027 suggests an early start to the race. Political observers note that early declarations are becoming more common in Nigeria as politicians seek to build momentum, secure party structures and mobilize grassroots support ahead of elections.
The FCT Area Council elections, particularly in AMAC, are seen as important because Abuja is the nation’s capital and carries political weight. Success in the area council polls could help the ADC strengthen its presence in the FCT and demonstrate its growing influence.
Obi’s call for support in AMAC highlights how local elections are often used by national politicians to test their strength and build structures ahead of larger contests. Winning at the grassroots level is seen as key to success in national elections.
Nigeria’s next general elections are scheduled for 2027, and political activities are already picking up across parties. Issues such as economic hardship, rising cost of living, insecurity and unemployment are expected to dominate campaigns.
For Peter Obi, the 2027 election appears to be another opportunity to present his vision for Nigeria. By openly stating that he is running “as number one,” he has sent a strong message to both his supporters and rivals.
As the ADC continues to position itself as an alternative political platform, how it manages the ambitions of figures like Obi, Atiku and Amaechi may determine its strength and unity ahead of 2027.