2027: How We Plan to Counter Peter Obi’s Influence in the South — APC Deputy Chairman

The Deputy National Chairman (South) of the All Progressives Congress, Ben Nwoye, has said the party is preparing for a strong contest against the growing influence of Peter Obi in the South ahead of the 2027 general election.

Obi, who ran in 2023 under the Labour Party and secured victories in nine southern states, has since moved to the African Democratic Congress, where he is positioning himself for a possible presidential ticket in 2027.

In the 2023 presidential election, Obi finished third nationwide with over 6 million votes, behind President Bola Tinubu of the APC and Atiku Abubakar of the Atiku Abubakar and the Peoples Democratic Party candidate.

Speaking after his election at the APC national convention, Nwoye said the party is treating the South as a key battleground, noting Obi’s performance in the region and his continued political reach. He pointed to the Labour Party’s strong showing in the South-East during the last cycle, including legislative wins across several states.

He also referenced Obi’s electoral strength in areas such as Lagos State, Edo State, and Delta State, describing the spread as evidence that the opposition would require a more coordinated response from the ruling party.

According to him, the APC is not underestimating the emerging alignments ahead of 2027, especially with other southern politicians, including Rotimi Amaechi, also expected to play roles in the race.

The comments came as the APC concluded its convention over the weekend, where Nentawe Yilwatda emerged as national chairman through a consensus arrangement. Surajudeen Basiru was also confirmed as national secretary alongside other members of the National Working Committee.