Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has downplayed concerns that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar might hijack the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Gossip News Now reports that Obi’s reaction follows widespread speculation that Atiku could emerge as the preferred candidate of the emerging opposition coalition, sparking unease among Obi’s supporters.

Atiku had earlier told BBC Hausa that he would not withdraw for any aspirant unless defeated in a fair ADC primary, a remark that reignited debate over his 2027 ambitions.

Speaking in an interview with PUNCH during his visit to LEA Primary School, Kapwa, Abuja, Obi described Atiku as a “dear elder brother and respected leader,” stressing that he harbors no fear over the former vice president’s political moves.

According to the former Anambra State governor, the ADC coalition is not about personal rivalry but a collective effort to “rescue Nigeria.”

“I’m a member of the Labour Party and part of the coalition forming the ADC for the 2027 presidential election,” Obi explained. “This is about building a united front to fix our country, not about who gets what ticket. Every well-meaning Nigerian must come together for national recovery.”

When asked about his readiness to contest in 2027, Obi reaffirmed his commitment to the race, emphasizing that competence—not party affiliation—should guide voters’ choices.

“I’m contesting, and I will be. What matters is competence and capacity. Nigerians should ask who can deliver results. I believe I have the experience and ability to change the trajectory of this country within four years,” he stated.

Obi also urged Nigerians to look beyond partisan politics and focus on governance that improves people’s lives.

“We’ve talked too much about party politics. I recently visited villages in Anambra and saw real poverty. Instead of talking about primaries and chairmanships, we should be asking what will benefit ordinary Nigerians,” he added.