Quote from Alex bobby on July 1, 2025, 7:32 AM

Peter Obi on Coalition Politics: “I’ll Decide with Consultation When the Time Comes”

Former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has addressed growing speculation surrounding his role in the emerging political coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections. While many of his supporters are eager to see him take centre stage again as a presidential contender, Obi made it clear over the weekend that his future actions will be guided by broad consultations and collective national interest—not personal ambition.

Speaking during a media space hosted by ParallelFact on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, Obi offered a glimpse into the thinking behind his political approach, his involvement in the coalition, and what might lie ahead should the alliance choose someone else as its presidential flag-bearer.

The Coalition and the Road to 2027

The proposed political coalition—rumoured to include former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-governors Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, and other prominent figures—is generating buzz as a potential third force to challenge the two dominant political parties: the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

But despite being one of the most recognisable figures in the movement, Peter Obi was cautious about any assumptions that he would automatically lead the coalition into the next election.

“I can’t tell you the coalition is the one going to produce Peter Obi,” he said. “When we reach that stage, we will discuss that. The coalition is about coming together to save the country.”

A Politics of Consultation

One of the core themes of Obi’s remarks was consultation. He emphasised that every major political decision he’s made in the past—such as leaving the PDP for the Labour Party in the lead-up to the 2023 election—was made only after wide consultation.

“If you were among those close to me, you would know that I consulted before I left the PDP. I didn’t just wake up in the morning and say I will do this,” he explained.

This commitment to consensus and collective reasoning appears to be the guiding principle of his political style. When asked what he would do if the coalition failed to select him as the presidential candidate, he remained noncommittal but firm in tone.

“I wish I can answer you that question, but unfortunately for now, I can’t... When that time comes, I will consult and then tell what I am going to do.”

Coalition First, Candidate Later

According to Obi, the coalition has not yet selected a party platform or presidential candidate. He reiterated that the current focus is on building unity and identifying shared goals, not on personalities or positions.

“We haven’t reached the stage where we say it’s going to be this person,” Obi said. “I believe the people coming together are decent and want to work for the interest of the country.”

He also acknowledged that some parties have not yet joined the coalition due to internal issues, but expressed optimism that more would sign on once those matters were resolved.

“The coalition wants to adopt a party, and we are going to do that very soon. Other parties will still join.”

Country First: A Message to Supporters

Peter Obi was also keen to allay the fears of his supporters, many of whom worry that he might be sidelined in the coalition talks or compromise on core values. He reassured them that any decision he makes will not be self-serving but will reflect the will of the people who believe in his vision.

“I will do what is in the best interest of the country and what those I lead and are following me want. I don’t discuss such things on my own.”

This message seems aimed not only at reassuring his loyal base but also at broadening his appeal as a bridge-builder in a highly polarised political climate.

What’s Next for Peter Obi?

As the 2027 election cycle quietly begins to take shape, Obi’s position signals that Nigeria’s political realignment is still in flux. His emphasis on consultation, national interest, and unity suggests that his role—whether as a candidate or kingmaker—will be shaped not by haste but by deliberate strategy.

For now, Obi says the focus remains on coming together to fix Nigeria. The time for candidacies and campaign declarations will come, and when it does, he promises his decision will be made with careful thought and broad input.

“I have never done anything without consultation. And if I become President, I wouldn’t just go around announcing things without consultation.”

Final Thoughts

Peter Obi’s remarks underscore a rare trait in Nigerian politics: restraint and consensus-driven leadership. While many speculate about whether he will run again in 2027, Obi himself is prioritising unity and strategy over personal ambition. As the coalition solidifies, the real question may not be whether Obi leads it, but how his collaborative approach could reshape Nigeria’s path forward.

Conclusion

Peter Obi’s remarks reflect a strategic and thoughtful approach to Nigeria’s evolving political landscape. Rather than rushing into another presidential bid or demanding leadership within the emerging coalition, he is emphasising consultation, unity, and national interest. His refusal to outline his next move without broader discussions highlights a political philosophy rooted in collaboration and consensus—a rare quality in a space often driven by personal ambition.

As Nigeria edges closer to the 2027 elections, Obi’s stance positions him not just as a potential candidate, but as a key statesman whose influence could shape the outcome of any coalition. Whether he leads the ticket or plays a supporting role, one thing is clear: Peter Obi will move in tandem with the people who believe in his vision—and in what he calls the collective mission to save the country.

Meta Description:
Peter Obi says he won't rush into a 2027 presidential bid without consultation, as political coalition talks continue. Here's what he said about his role and next steps.