APC's 30 governors won't scare me off from running in the presidential election, says Obi

Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, remains undaunted by the rising number of governors defecting to the All Progressives Congress, affirming his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election despite the party's control of 30 governors.

n

Obi's resolve to run for president has not wavered, even in the face of what he describes as conspiracies from various quarters aimed at discouraging him from participating in the election.

n

The presidential hopeful made these remarks in Nimo, Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State, on Friday, during an empowerment programme sponsored by George Ozodinobi, the member representing Dunukofia/Njikoka/Anaocha Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

n

Addressing the gathering, the former Anambra governor explained that his decision to leave the Labour Party was due to ongoing court battles over leadership issues, which had yielded favourable judgments that were initially ignored by INEC, only to be recognised after his departure on December 31, 2025.

n

Obi asserted that the recent amendments to the Constitution are, in part, aimed at preventing him from contesting the election, but he remains committed to participating, calling for a free and fair contest to determine the winner.

n

He declared his intention to contest the election, regardless of any obstacles, and urged the opposing party to ensure a fair and transparent process, saying "Let them declare a free and fair contest, bring the ball to the middle of the field and declare it started, and let's see what happens."

n

Obi lamented the state of the nation, stating that the system has collapsed, and emphasized the need for redemption, driven by his desire to see a functional Nigeria rather than a personal ambition to become president.

n

He criticised the greed and hunger for power among Nigeria's wealthy elite, who, despite having everything they need, continue to seek more, exemplifying the country's skewed system that favours the rich at the expense of the poor.

n

Obi noted that even during empowerment programmes, many well-to-do individuals would struggle for items they do not need, highlighting the deep-seated issues with the country's social and economic structures.

n

The former governor expressed his gratitude to the lawmaker for the empowerment items, citing such initiatives as the reason he believes only good politicians should be elected into positions, with the ultimate goal of creating a country where anyone can succeed without relying on connections or wealth.