The Labour Party's 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has declared that the 2027 general elections may be his final run for Nigeria’s highest office, hinting at a likely retirement from active politics thereafter.
In a candid seven-minute video circulated via the Labour Party’s WhatsApp platform, the former Anambra State governor told a gathering of young Nigerians that, should he lose again in 2027, he may never seek elective office again due to age and principle.
“I believe we should have a retirement age for politicians. By 2027, I’ll be 65. If the presidency goes back to the North in 2031, it may not return to the South until 2039 — by then, I will be 77. I wouldn’t want to run for office at that age. It would make a mess of everything,” Obi said.
Obi, known for his data-driven campaign and frugal leadership style, added that even if he steps away from the ballot, he will continue to support young Nigerians committed to national transformation.
“Even if I’m not contesting, I will always support those of you who are committed to real change, with whatever resources I can provide,” he assured.
Though Sunday PUNCH could not independently confirm the date of the video, Obi’s media aide, Umar Ibrahim, said it was recorded recently, noting, “It’s a recent video, around last week, yes. But I can’t remember the exact day.”
The LP chieftain didn’t hold back when speaking on the turmoil within opposition parties, accusing the federal government of deliberately destabilizing the Labour Party and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“What is happening in the Labour Party and the PDP is caused by the government. Quote me anywhere,” Obi said bluntly, alleging that interference in party affairs is a calculated move to weaken opposition voices and tilt the political landscape.
He recalled how the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua once stepped in to ensure political stability during internal party rifts, citing a time he personally visited the president, who in turn instructed then-INEC chairman Prof. Maurice Iwu to ensure peace.
Obi argued that strong opposition is essential for democracy and vowed to address such structural imbalances if elected in 2027.
The former governor also emphasized the need for citizens to protect the sanctity of their votes, warning that entrenched interests would resist reforms aimed at dismantling the current patronage-driven system.
“Any meaningful reform will be resisted by those feeding fat off the chaos,” he said. “But if we’re serious about change, we must take personal responsibility in defending our democracy.”
Obi’s remarks are already stirring conversations online and within political circles — with supporters lauding his principled stand, and critics questioning his party’s cohesion and electoral viability ahead of 2027.
