I’m Not Afraid of Losing ADC Ticket to Atiku, Says Obi

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has dismissed speculation that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar could take over the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during a visit to LEA Primary School, Kapwa, Abuja, Obi described Atiku as a “dear elder brother and respected leader,” insisting he had no fears about the veteran politician’s growing influence within the ADC coalition.

The rumours emerged after reports surfaced that several of Atiku’s loyalists from the Peoples Democratic Party had defected to the ADC alliance, sparking concerns among Obi’s supporters about a possible takeover. Tensions rose further after Atiku, in a recent BBC Hausa interview, vowed not to step aside for any aspirant unless defeated in the ADC primaries — a declaration that reignited discussions about his 2027 presidential ambitions.

Adding to the debate, former Kaduna Central senator Shehu Sani warned on X that defeating Atiku in any party primary would be “difficult” if he joined the race.

Obi, however, downplayed any sense of rivalry, stressing that the emerging coalition was focused on rescuing Nigeria rather than political competition. “Atiku is a very dear elder brother and leader that I have a lot of respect for. I’m a member of the Labour Party and part of the coalition forming the ADC for the presidential election in 2027,” Obi said. “Other parties and people are going to be part of it. All of us are coming together as a people. That’s my belief.”

He emphasised that Nigeria’s recovery would require unity among well-meaning citizens. “For us to do the right thing for the country, everyone who truly wants progress must come together to rescue it,” he said.

Obi also hinted at his readiness to run in 2027, under the ADC or another platform, saying competence and sincerity should guide voters’ choices. “I’m contesting, and I’m sure I will be. People must look at who is competent and has the capacity. I believe I’m qualified. I have the capacity to do the job, and in four years, I can change Nigeria’s trajectory to a positive one,” he declared.

He urged Nigerians to shift their focus from partisan politics to issues that directly affect citizens’ welfare. “We’ve talked too much politics in this country. I was recently in some villages in Anambra and saw poverty everywhere. We’re busy talking about party chairmen and primaries. I want the new Nigeria to focus on what will benefit the people,” he added.

Obi and Atiku both lost to President Bola Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election, which was one of the most competitive races in Nigeria’s history. Running on the Labour Party platform and buoyed by a youth-driven movement, Obi finished third behind Atiku.