The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has firmly stated that Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, does not need to form any coalition with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) or rely on influential figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar or ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai in order to secure victory in the 2027 presidential election.
Prof. Theophilus Ndubuaku, the Deputy President of the NLC Political Commission, underscored Obi’s widespread popularity, noting that he is a strong candidate capable of defeating President Bola Tinubu in a free and fair election.
Ndubuaku dismissed the idea of Obi rejoining the PDP, calling the party a “crisis-ridden and near-empty platform.” He stressed that the Labour Party, despite its own challenges, is a better and more stable option for Obi’s political aspirations.
“Peter Obi doesn’t need any coalition to win the 2027 presidential election. He is a sellable candidate. If you recall, he was already coasting to victory in the 2023 elections before the controversial glitches. He even defeated Tinubu in his own stronghold in Lagos, which shows Nigerians want him in power,” Ndubuaku remarked.
The NLC leader added, “For as long as INEC conducts a free and fair election, he will win. He can also leverage his local and international connections to make it happen.” This sentiment aligns with the view expressed by the Obidients Movement, which recently reaffirmed its strong support for Obi in the upcoming 2027 election, regardless of the platform he runs on.
Dr. Yunusa Tanko, the National Coordinator of the Obidients Movement, also emphasized that Nigeria urgently needs a leader who can address the nation’s current economic crisis. Tanko described Obi as the only candidate capable of leading the country out of its challenges.
Echoing Tanko’s sentiment, Ndubuaku noted that Obi has gained national acceptance across all six geopolitical zones in Nigeria, making him a candidate with broad support. He strongly cautioned against any attempts for Obi to return to the PDP, highlighting the party’s ongoing internal turmoil.
“No serious candidate will consider the PDP as a viable platform at this point,” Ndubuaku remarked. “Obi is a disciplined man. If people are suggesting he return to the PDP, on what basis? Compare the PDP’s issues with those of the Labour Party. While LP’s crisis—centering around Julius Abure—has been settled by the Supreme Court, the PDP is still battling a hydra-headed crisis. Moving from LP to PDP would be like jumping from frying pan to fire.”
Ndubuaku also addressed concerns about zoning and power rotation, particularly the fear that Obi could serve a full eight-year term, which some in the northern part of the country believe could disrupt the balance. However, Ndubuaku was quick to reassure that Obi, known for his focus on governance and performance, is not desperate for power.
“The only reservation some people have is that if Obi wins, he could take the full eight years, which the North fears may disrupt the zoning balance. But we know Obi doesn’t need two years to revive Nigeria. He’s not desperate for power,” Ndubuaku concluded.
