2027: ‘Let’s compete on ideas, not divisive politics’ - Obi tells contestants
Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), is calling on politicians participating in the 2027 elections to prioritize ideas and solutions over divisive tactics.
In a statement titled “Unity and Love in Politics,” released on his X account Tuesday, Obi made the remarks following his attendance at the commissioning of the presidential campaign office for the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in Abuja.
The former governor of Anambra State emphasized the importance of national unity in political contests, urging candidates to place the interests of the country above their political rivalries. “I used the opportunity to emphasize the need for us to build a New Nigeria anchored on unity, love, justice, mutual respect, and inclusion,” Obi said, highlighting the potential for political discourse to become contentious.
He encouraged candidates to center their campaigns around national interests and to avoid divisive rhetoric that could exacerbate existing tensions. “We must insist that our shared love for our country should always be greater than our political differences. This is my call to all contestants in the forthcoming elections,” he stated.
Obi further articulated that the 2027 election should focus on practical solutions to pressing issues such as insecurity, poverty, hunger, and inequality. “Let our contest be about ideas and solutions that will address the enormous challenges facing our country today,” he said, pointing to the need to address the growing number of out-of-school children.
He urged candidates to run campaigns that foster unity and restore hope while maintaining civility among political adversaries. “Let us compete on ideas that will unite our people, improve their lives, and restore hope to our nation, while maintaining respect, decency, and love for one another,” Obi added.
Obi attended the event alongside Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the APM presidential candidate, and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, the party’s leader. He congratulated both governors, along with other APM leaders and members, on the inauguration of the campaign office.
His attendance at the commissioning has sparked speculation regarding potential political realignments ahead of the upcoming presidential election in 2027.
