Renowned political economist Pat Utomi has issued a stark ultimatum to Peter Obi ahead of the 2027 Nigerian elections: accept a vice-presidential slot under another candidate, and their alliance ends. The statement emerges amid Obi's recent defection from the Labour Party to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), fueling speculation on opposition coalitions.
Utomi, a key Obi supporter and Big Tent convener in 2023, declared he would "walk away" if Obi settles for anyone's running mate, emphasizing leadership integrity over compromise. He views Obi as Nigeria's top presidential contender, rejecting any subordinate role in a multi-party opposition push against President Bola Tinubu. This reflects Utomi's push for a unified, principled front amid ADC's growing aspirants like Atiku Abubakar and Rotimi Amaechi.
Obi confirmed his 2027 presidential bid on ADC, dismissing VP rumors and highlighting patriotism against APC governance. Atiku welcomed Obi's entry, eyeing deeper ties, while Labour's Alex Otti stays loyal, eyeing party revival. APC dismisses the moves as futile, touting Tinubu's reforms.
Utomi's warning underscores fractures in opposition unity, with Obi's ADC switch fracturing Labour and intensifying primaries. Analysts see it reshaping 2027 dynamics, prioritizing electoral integrity over alliances. Obi's coalition involvement signals broader anti-Tinubu efforts, but personal ambitions loom large.