Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has denied reports that he is working on a power sharing deal with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking in Abuja on Monday at an event where the Anglican Church donated ₦20 million for a school and hospital project in Kubwa, Obi said he is focused on helping Nigerians, not chasing political positions.
“I’m in a coalition against hunger, poverty, and ill health,” he said. “For me, politics is not about getting a title. It’s about doing what is right for the people.”
There had been rumours that Obi had agreed to be Atiku’s running mate in 2027, with a promise that Atiku would only serve one term. Obi did not confirm or deny the rumour, but he made it clear that his interest is in helping the country, not in political bargaining.
His support group, the Obidient Movement, also dismissed the reports. In a statement, Nana Kazaure, the group’s spokesperson, said the story was made up and has no truth.
“Peter Obi is still in the Labour Party and is focused on building a better Nigeria. He has not said anything about leaving or joining any alliance,” she said.
Atiku’s media aide, Paul Ibe, confirmed that opposition parties are talking about forming a coalition but said details are being kept private for now.
Meanwhile, the African Democratic Congress is updating its rules to welcome new members as it prepares for a national convention. The party’s chairman, Ralph Okey Nwosu, has announced he will step down to allow fresh leadership.
Many see these moves as early steps by opposition parties to unite and challenge the ruling APC in 2027. But for Peter Obi, the real mission remains the same: fighting poverty and bad governance rather than sharing political power.
