Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), has refuted claims that he would accept a vice-presidential role in the 2027 elections.
Obi made the clarification in a post on his X (formerly Twitter) page on Saturday, addressing misrepresentations from a recent interview he granted to News Central Television.
Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, had been quoted in some reports as expressing willingness to consider a vice-presidential position if he found a candidate capable of performing better than him.
However, in his reaction, Obi dismissed the reports as “propaganda” orchestrated by what he described as “fifth columnists.”
“I have been inundated with calls and concerns regarding the interview I granted to News Central TV,” Obi stated. “Some fifth columnists have resorted to propaganda, deliberately distorting the narrative.”
Obi explained that his focus remains on resolving Nigeria’s pressing challenges, such as hunger, poverty, and insecurity, rather than focusing on the 2027 elections. He also reiterated his commitment to working with others who share his vision for advancing the country’s progress, provided their intentions are not rooted in state capture.
“Let me reiterate clearly what I said, which is on record: I do not want to be one of those preoccupied with 2027 while Nigerians are suffering from hunger, poverty, insecurity, and other pressing challenges,” he said.
Obi further stressed that he remains loyal to the Labour Party and is open to collaboration with those genuinely committed to building a new Nigeria.
He clarified that he is not desperate to occupy any political office but is dedicated to making a positive impact.
“For the avoidance of doubts, I never stated at any time that I would be vice president to anyone, and it’s unequivocal,” Obi wrote.
“My commitment to Nigeria remains steadfast, and I even believe it is possible to contribute to its progress without occupying any office as I am already doing.”
