Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has denied reports that he agreed to run as vice presidential candidate in the 2027 election.
Obi was asked in an interview on News Central whether he might consider collaboration with other political actors, including Kwankwaso in the 2027 election. He said if such collaboration was for service and not state capture, he would be open to it. The report was however twisted on social media to mean Obi accepted to run as vice president in 2027.
Obi, in reaction, posted on his X handle that the report of him accepting to run as vice president to anyone was false.
He said in the post. “I have been inundated with calls and concerns regarding the interview I granted to News Central TV. In that interview, I took the opportunity it provided to explain my position in detail. However, some fifth columnists have resorted to propaganda, deliberately distorting the narrative.
“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. When I was asked about collaboration, I explicitly stated my openness to working with others, provided their intentions were not centred on state capture. I emphasized my commitment to partnering with those who share my vision for advancing Nigeria’s progress. I also made it clear that I remain committed to the Labour Party, and if anyone wishes to negotiate or join forces, they must disclose their true intentions.
“As I have always maintained, I am not desperate to become president, but I am determined to see Nigeria work. Likewise, I am not desperate for any position at all as I believe I can make contributions as I am already doing without occupying any. When 2027 arrives, if I decide to run for any office, it will not be with those whose sole aim is state capture or merely winning an election. I want them to explain how we will ensure that no child is left behind and how we will bring millions of out-of-school children back into classrooms, ensure healthy living and pull people out of poverty.
“My statement was unequivocal, and I am genuinely surprised by the misrepresentation of my words. For the avoidance of doubts, I never stated at any time that I would be vice president to anyone and it’s unequivocal. I have consistently maintained that I am open to working with those committed to building a new Nigeria. 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.”
