Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has rejected a recent assessment by his former running mate, Dr Datti Baba-Ahmed, that none of the leading contenders for the 2027 election can fundamentally transform Nigeria. The former Anambra State governor said his performance in office proves he can replicate measurable results at the national level.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, Obi argued that Nigeria’s deep challenges can be addressed through purposeful leadership, institutional reforms and focused investment in critical sectors.
“I passed in particular areas of development. And I can do the same thing for Nigeria,” he said.
He outlined a governance agenda centred on national unity, security, justice, law and order, anti-corruption and investment in areas that improve citizens’ welfare and productivity. Obi pledged to restore the country’s reputation and rebuild public trust in government, stating that leadership must produce tangible improvements in people’s lives.
“(If elected) I’ll be able to do quite a number of things that will bring honour, respect to the country,” he maintained.
He reaffirmed his long-standing call for a shift from a consumption-driven economy to one based on production and human capital development, adding, “You know I will fight corruption.”
On elections and the rule of law, Obi said, “I’m still with the issue of justice. I’m still with the issue of law and order. Of course, what we’re talking about in the election cannot take place under my watch.”
He identified three immediate priorities, restoring national unity, securing the country against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other threats, and prioritising healthcare, education and poverty reduction.
Separately, Obi spoke at the official opening of the presidential campaign office of Allied Peoples Movement (APM) candidate Governor Seyi Makinde in Oyo State, describing the Oyo governor as eminently qualified to lead Nigeria in 2027.
The Peter Obi Movement for Rescue (POMR) also rejected Baba-Ahmed’s assessment. In a statement by its spokesman, Idris Zekeri Jnr, the group said the former vice-presidential candidate correctly reflected the depth of Nigeria’s problems but failed to give adequate weight to Obi’s record in public office.
POMR argued that years of mismanagement, corruption, waste and poor leadership have weakened institutions and deepened hardship. It maintained that Obi’s tenure in Anambra demonstrated fiscal discipline and measurable progress in education, healthcare, human development and infrastructure using limited resources.
“Peter Obi does not approach Nigeria’s challenges as an experiment. His record in Anambra provides evidence of what he can do with limited resources when public office is treated as a responsibility rather than an opportunity for personal enrichment,” the group said.
It added that the 2027 question is not whether any individual can “magically rescue” the country, but whether Nigerians will choose a leader with the character, competence and courage to begin recovery through strong institutions, competent teams, anti-corruption measures and investment in productive sectors.
Obi and Baba-Ahmed contested the 2023 presidential election together on the Labour Party platform. Their political relationship has since become strained. Political parties and opposition groups are intensifying consultations ahead of the 2027 general elections, with discussions of possible alliances and the search for a strong challenger to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) dominating the discourse.
As opposition consultations continue, Obi’s comments signal his determination to present a record-based alternative while parties weigh potential partnerships for the 2027 race.
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