Written by SpringNewsNG Media Limited | May 25, 2025

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, has stated that the 2027 elections may be his final attempt at running for Nigeria’s highest political office.

In a video message shared on the Labour Party’s WhatsApp platform, Obi confirmed his intention to contest in 2027 but indicated that it might mark the end of his pursuit of the presidency. The video, which lasted seven minutes and sixteen seconds, featured Obi addressing young Nigerians in an informal setting.

Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, cited age and the rotation of political power as key reasons he may step away from active politics after the 2027 elections.

“I believe we should have a retirement age for politicians. By 2027, I’ll be 65. If the presidency returns to the North in 2031, it may not come back to the South until 2039 — by which time I’ll be 77. I wouldn’t want to run for office at that age. It would make a mess of everything,” he said.

Despite suggesting he may not run again after 2027, Obi reassured Nigerian youth of his continued support for transformational leadership.

“Even if I’m not contesting, I will always support those of you committed to real change, with whatever resources I can provide,” he added.

Obi Blames Government for Opposing Party Crises

Obi also spoke about the internal crises within both the Labour Party and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), attributing the instability to deliberate interference from the ruling government.

“What is happening in the Labour Party and the PDP is caused by the government. Quote me anywhere,” he declared, alleging that the turmoil was part of a broader strategy to weaken opposition forces.

He referenced former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua as a model of leadership that respected political balance and fairness. Obi recalled how Yar’Adua once summoned the then INEC Chairman, Prof. Maurice Iwu, to ensure peace within political parties.

“Yar’Adua told Iwu he didn’t want any issues in any party. The problems were fixed. Today, every political party is facing one crisis or another — and it’s deliberate,” Obi said.

Call for Electoral Integrity and Youth Mobilization

Obi urged Nigerians, particularly the youth, to defend the integrity of the electoral process and not rely solely on institutions. He warned that genuine reform would always meet resistance from individuals benefitting from the current flawed system.

“If we want real change, we must be ready to protect our votes ourselves. Those benefitting from the system will always fight to maintain it,” he cautioned.

Obi emphasized that a thriving democracy requires strong opposition parties and called for greater citizen participation in Nigeria’s democratic process.