By John Umeh
Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi has openly declared that he will seek the presidency in the 2027 general election, shutting the door firmly on any suggestion that he could run as a vice-presidential candidate.
Obi made the declaration while addressing supporters during a campaign outing for candidates of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the Federal Capital Territory’s Area Council elections. The event took place at the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).
Speaking to party faithful, Obi explained that his involvement in the local council elections is part of a broader political vision aimed at national leadership. He stressed that building support at the grassroots level is essential to achieving his long-term goal of contesting and winning the presidency.
According to him, victories in local elections such as AMAC would help strengthen the political base needed for his 2027 ambition, adding that he is personally invested in the process.
Obi was emphatic that his political future lies at the top of the ballot, not as a supporting candidate.
“Your backing here matters greatly to what we are building. This journey requires commitment, and I want you to know that I am fully involved. When the time comes, it will be clear that I am contesting as the lead candidate,” he told supporters.
His statement comes amid sustained pressure from his loyal support base, popularly known as the Obidient Movement, who have been pushing for him to emerge as the ADC’s presidential standard-bearer ahead of the next general election.
However, the contest for the party’s ticket is expected to be highly competitive. Several influential politicians within the ADC are also believed to be nursing presidential ambitions, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, setting the stage for a potentially heated race as 2027 approaches.
