Obi Says Popular Support, Not Governors, Will Decide 2027 Presidential Election
By Rita Onuoha
E-ISSN: 2354-4481
Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has downplayed the significance of governors endorsing President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election, maintaining that electoral success is ultimately determined by the Nigerian people rather than political endorsements.
Speaking during an interview with NoireTV, the former Anambra State governor said his performance in the 2023 presidential election demonstrated that popular support outweighs political structures. According to him, he contested the election without the backing of any sitting governor yet recorded victories in several states.
Obi stated that he won 12 states during the 2023 presidential election despite lacking gubernatorial support, arguing that the outcome reflected the strength of grassroots support across the country.
He also reiterated his longstanding position that he was denied victories in two states, insisting that his overall performance underscored the ability of voters to influence electoral outcomes irrespective of elite political alliances.
Addressing concerns about the growing number of governors aligning with the ruling party, Obi said such endorsements would not determine the outcome of the 2027 presidential election. He stressed that Nigerians are more concerned with solutions to economic hardship than political realignments.
According to him, the central issues for the next election should be the welfare of citizens, quality education, accessible healthcare, job creation and improved living standards rather than ethnicity, religion or political affiliations.
Obi said his vision is to build a Nigeria where national development and the wellbeing of the people take precedence over divisive politics, noting that millions of citizens are currently struggling with hunger and economic challenges.
The former governor also pledged to embrace dialogue in addressing agitations and strengthening national unity if elected president in 2027.
Speaking during an interaction with Nigerians in Washington, D.C., United States, Obi said meaningful engagement with stakeholders and a willingness to make necessary sacrifices would be essential for rebuilding trust and fostering national cohesion.
He explained that his approach would involve listening to various groups, harmonising their concerns and pursuing inclusive solutions aimed at promoting peace and unity across the country.
Obi's remarks come amid increasing political consultations and alliance discussions ahead of the 2027 presidential election, as opposition parties seek to consolidate support against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Despite ongoing political realignments, he maintained that the ultimate decision on Nigeria's leadership rests with the electorate and not with governors or political power brokers.
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