In a move that has stirred the political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has officially declared his intention to contest again — with a bold offer to serve only one term if that will help build a formidable coalition to salvage Nigeria.
Speaking during a highly attended Twitter Space on Sunday, June 29, 2025, Obi expressed his deep concern over the worsening economic and security situation in the country. He said his return to the race is not about personal ambition, but a renewed sense of duty to "rescue the nation" from what he described as an administration that has failed Nigerians on all fronts.
> “Yes, I’m running. But it is not just about running — it is about rescuing Nigeria,” Obi said.
Most notably, Obi revealed that he is willing to step down after just one term in office if that is the consensus within a potential opposition coalition. According to him, such a sacrifice would be worth it to ensure unity, national stability, and a better future for the country.
> “If it becomes necessary for me to serve for only four years and hand over to a competent candidate from the North in 2031, I will honour it. I am not desperate. I am only interested in building a better Nigeria,” he declared.
This offer has sparked widespread reactions from political analysts and citizens alike. Many see it as a strategic masterstroke aimed at galvanizing support from northern blocs and uniting the fractured opposition, especially as talks of a mega-coalition among key political actors continue to gain ground.
Obi also used the opportunity to dismiss speculations that he was in talks with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for a joint ticket.
> “I am not running under Atiku. I am running for Nigeria. If a coalition must happen, I will lead it,” he said emphatically.
Recall that Peter Obi, a former Governor of Anambra State, came third in the 2023 presidential election, winning 6.1 million votes in what was widely seen as a political earthquake by a relatively new movement dubbed the 'Obidients.' Despite the loss, his influence has continued to grow, particularly among Nigerian youths and members of the middle class who view him as a symbol of accountability and prudent governance.
With this fresh declaration, the 2027 race has officially kicked off — and all eyes are now on how other political powerhouses, especially within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), will respond to Obi’s audacious return and his coalition-building strategy.
As the countdown begins, one thing is clear: Peter Obi is back — and he’s not playing by the old rules.
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