Questions continue to surround the political platform that former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, will contest on in the 2027 elections.
Although Obi is part of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition working to unseat President Bola Tinubu, there are growing concerns that his chances of clinching the party’s presidential ticket may be slipping away. Reports suggest that ADC power brokers are leaning toward former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who has made it clear he intends to run again and will not step down for anyone.
Labour Party Crisis
Peter Obi’s strong performance in the 2023 election and the massive support from the Obidient Movement propelled the Labour Party into national prominence. However, internal divisions within the LP now threaten his 2027 ambitions.
The crisis began after the expiration of National Chairman Julius Abure’s tenure in March 2024. In a controversial move, Abure organised a national convention that re-elected him as chairman, but the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) rejected the outcome, citing procedural violations.
Despite Obi’s repeated efforts to mediate and restore unity, the LP remains divided and has yet to hold a legitimate convention.
PDP Challenges
There have also been calls for Obi to return to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of 2027, but the main opposition party is battling leadership disputes and widespread defections to the ruling APC. The growing influence of Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike further complicates Obi’s prospects within the PDP.
Peter Obi’s Political Dilemma
With internal struggles in both the LP and PDP, and uncertainty within the ADC coalition, Obi’s next political home remains unclear.
In an exclusive interview with Naija News, the South-South Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Onochie Osheokwu, maintained that Peter Obi remains the strongest opposition figure capable of challenging President Tinubu in 2027.
He noted that Obi’s 2023 presidential run, which garnered around six million votes as a first-time candidate, was a major political achievement.
Osheokwu dismissed claims that Obi’s popularity is waning, saying his support base remains active and is even growing amid worsening economic hardship and insecurity.
“Everyone in the coalition knows the truth — Peter Obi is the best shot to rescue Nigeria from the current hardship. The APC has brought hunger, insecurity, and hopelessness,” Osheokwu stated.
He emphasised that Obi’s six million votes in 2023 prove his national appeal, adding that the same voters are “still alive and even more determined.”
Obi Still Rooted in Labour Party
Despite the Labour Party’s internal crisis, Osheokwu confirmed that Obi remains a registered and active member of the LP, though he continues to engage in coalition discussions with the ADC and other opposition figures.
“We are still members of the Labour Party. Peter Obi is in the ADC coalition, but he remains a committed Labour Party member,” Osheokwu clarified. “Every political party knows Obi is the strongest candidate. That’s why the ruling party targets him with propaganda.”
While uncertainty lingers over which platform Peter Obi will ultimately choose, Osheokwu assured supporters that the former Anambra governor will be a contender in 2027.
“One thing I can tell you as someone in Peter Obi’s inner circle — he will be on the ballot,” he said confidently.










