Daily Mentor News

Peter Obi’s political future dominates Nigeria’s 2027 election discourse amid mounting pressure to abandon the crisis-ridden Labour Party (LP) for a stronger coalition. The 2023 presidential candidate, who secured over six million votes, faces internal dissent as his Enugu campaign coordinator exits LP, while allies urge him to stay and rebuild the party. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has dismissed the need for alliances, insisting Obi can defeat President Bola Tinubu “in a free and fair contest” without partnering with the PDP or figures like Atiku Abubakar.

Loyalty vs. Strategy Debate

The Obidient Movement has pledged unwavering support, vowing to follow Obi “to any platform” he chooses. However, LP Deputy National Chairman Dr Ayo Olorunfemi warns that defecting would portray Obi as “opportunistic,” urging him to resolve internal party crises instead. This follows calls from PDP chieftains for Obi’s return, including ex-Anambra PDP chairman Dan Ulasi, who argues the move would strengthen opposition unity.

Sanwo-Olu Clash and Social Media Hiatus

Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s scathing critique of Obi’s governance record in Anambra-accusing him of failing to build schools or hospitals-has intensified scrutiny. Social media influencer Reno Omokri claimed Obi vanished online for three days post-rebuttal, contrasting his usual hyperactive posts. Sanwo-Olu’s statement, titled “Factually Addressing Peter Obi’s Criticism,” accused the LP leader of “denigrating Nigeria abroad” while ignoring his own alleged failures to reduce poverty.

Structural Challenges

Obi’s 2023 campaign infrastructure shows cracks: his Enugu coordinator quit LP, citing unresolved internal conflicts, while allies like Dele Momodu allege ex-PDP stalwart Nyesom Wike “frustrated” Obi out of the party in 2022. Despite LP’s turmoil, the NLC maintains Obi’s 2023 momentum-where he “defeated Tinubu in Lagos”-proves his independent viability.

As coalition talks swirl and LP fractures, Obi’s next move-whether party loyalty or strategic realignment-will shape Nigeria’s opposition landscape ahead of 2027.