By Ayomide Otitoju
The Obidient Movement has categorically denied claims that Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, has accepted a vice-presidential slot alongside former Vice President Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Monday and signed by its Director of Strategic Communications and Media, Nana Kazaure, the movement described the reports as “entirely baseless” and “imaginary to the author.”
“The Obidient Movement has received numerous enquiries from members within and outside the country concerning a media report suggesting that our principal, Mr. Peter Obi, has agreed to be Atiku Abubakar’s running mate in a proposed coalition for 2027,” the statement said.
“Although the publication is fictitious, we find it necessary to address it to prevent public misinterpretation.”
While acknowledging ongoing discussions with various stakeholders, the group stressed that such conversations are aimed at addressing Nigeria’s pressing socio-economic challenges and not at political horse-trading.
“Mr. Obi remains focused on confronting issues such as bad governance, corruption, hunger, poverty, poor healthcare, and out-of-school children — not on securing political positions,” the statement added.
The movement reaffirmed Obi’s loyalty to the Labour Party, clarifying that “if there is ever a change, Mr. Peter Obi will personally make such an announcement.”
Speaking during a visit to the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Kubwa in Abuja earlier on Monday, Obi emphasized his commitment to issue-based politics.
“I am in a coalition against hunger and poverty, not a coalition for power,” he said, dismissing rumours of his involvement in any 2027 ticket.
Obi, who placed third in the 2023 presidential election behind President Bola Tinubu and Atiku Abubakar, remains a prominent figure in opposition politics, with speculations ongoing about potential coalitions. However, both Obi and his supporters insist that national interest must remain paramount.
