Labour Party's presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has reiterated his commitment to national development and social reform, stating that his political engagements are driven by a desire to end bad governance, hunger, and poverty—not personal ambition.
Obi’s comments come amid reports suggesting a possible alliance with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2027 presidential elections, with claims that Atiku was willing to run for just one term and would formalize an agreement making Obi his vice-presidential candidate.
Responding to questions from Vanguard during an event in Kubwa, Abuja, where he donated to a school and hospital project organized by the Anglican Church, Obi neither confirmed nor denied the existence of such a political arrangement. Instead, he stressed the focus of the emerging coalition.
“You can make of the report what you want, but I’m in a coalition against bad governance, hunger, and poverty,” Obi said, underlining his continued dedication to social welfare and economic justice.
In a separate development, Obi addressed public speculation surrounding his recent visit to the Vatican, where he attended the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Obi clarified that his participation was entirely spiritual and not politically motivated.
“I have just returned from the Vatican, and it was a deeply solemn and reflective visit,” Obi stated. “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.”
Obi further explained that while he did not attend the Papal Audience reserved for heads of state and diplomatic representatives, the event’s moral weight was in the Pope’s message rather than the ceremonial interactions.
“What should truly command our attention, however, is the content and moral force contained in the Pope’s homily,” Obi noted, referencing the Pope’s call for a united global fight against poverty and the promotion of harmony beyond ethnic, political, and religious divisions.
He emphasized that leaders bear the moral responsibility of driving reforms that prioritize education, healthcare, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation. “The fight against corruption is the essential first step toward building societies where resources are directed to what truly matters,” he added.
Obi's recent statements reaffirm his image as a reform-minded figure focused on ethical governance and social justice, both at home and on the global stage.
