The Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has clarified that his involvement in the coalition ahead of the 2027 elections is focused on the fight against bad governance, hunger, and poverty, not personal political ambition.
Obi made this known in response to a question from Vanguard regarding reports of an alleged agreement with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to serve as his Vice President in the upcoming 2027 elections.
The report also claimed that Atiku had agreed to serve for only one term and was willing to formalize the agreement in writing.
Speaking at an event in Kubwa, where he donated to a school and hospital project organized by the Anglican Church, Obi neither confirmed nor denied the existence of such an agreement.
Instead, he emphasized his commitment to the coalition’s mission.
Obi stated, “You can make of the report what you want, but I’m in a coalition against bad governance, hunger, and poverty.”
His remarks underscore his focus on national development and social welfare over political positioning.
Meanwhile, Obi has emphasised that his participation in the inauguration ceremony of Pope Leo XIV in Rome should not be misconstrued as political but was spiritual and aligned with his tradition of attending significant global events.
In a statement posted on X (Twitter) on Monday, Obi said: “I have just returned from the Vatican, and it was a deeply solemn and reflective visit. My participation in the inauguration ceremony was in line with my previous witnessing of inaugurations, swearing-ins, and official ceremonies across the world — this was no exception.
“Such occasions carry profound moral and spiritual significance. This was never a political event and should remain untouched by politics. Some moments are best reserved for quiet contemplation.”
Obi explained that while he did not attend the Papal Audience, which was reserved for Heads of State and diplomatic representatives, the spiritual depth of the event lay in the Pope’s message, not in ceremonial interactions.
“What should truly command our attention, however, is the content and moral force contained in the Pope’s homily,” Obi noted, referring to the Pope’s call to fight poverty and promote a spirit of brotherhood beyond ethnic, political, and religious divides.
Obi stressed the moral responsibility of leaders to focus on genuine reform.
“The fight against corruption is the essential first step toward building societies where resources are directed to what truly matters — education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and infrastructure. These should be our major concern and the lasting message we carry home from the Vatican,” he said.
