Former Anambra State governor and 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has defended his political trajectory while unveiling key elements of his strategy ahead of the 2027 elections, during a wide-ranging interview on Arise TV.
In the interview, Obi addressed criticisms over his movement across political parties, articulated his economic vision, and spoke on security, national unity and the need for a stronger opposition. His remarks signal an early attempt to consolidate support and reposition himself in Nigeria’s evolving political space.
Here are 10 major highlights from the interview:
Principled exits, not political opportunism
Obi maintained that his decision to switch parties over the years was driven by principle. He said his departure from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) followed disagreements with his successor in Anambra State, which he feared could disrupt governance.
“I chose to step aside rather than allow the situation to degenerate,” he said.
Criticism of PDP’s internal culture
Reflecting on his time in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Obi described the party as one where rules were often disregarded and politics reduced to patronage.
“People were not playing by the rules. It was transactional. I cannot be part of that,” he said, reinforcing his stance against what he termed “transactional politics.”
Labour Party instability
Obi also pointed to internal disputes within the Labour Party as a factor that weakened confidence in the platform. Though he did not dwell on specifics, he suggested that the instability made it difficult to sustain a coherent political agenda.
Fresh alliance under ADC platform
The former governor confirmed his involvement with opposition figures aligned with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), as part of efforts to build a unified political front.
He acknowledged concerns about some of his allies but urged Nigerians to focus on present intentions rather than past affiliations.
“What matters is what people stand for today,” he said.
Determination to stay in the race
Obi made it clear he is prepared for a prolonged political struggle, signalling that setbacks would not deter him.
“We will continue the fight, no matter the obstacles,” he said, framing his ambition as part of a broader effort to rebuild Nigeria’s political system.
South-East bloc and national outreach
Following his registration with the ADC in Agulu, Anambra State, Obi said the South-East is mobilising as a bloc while engaging other regions to form a broader coalition.
He stressed the importance of unity among opposition forces to present a credible alternative in 2027.
Northern Nigeria as economic driver
In a direct appeal to northern voters, Obi described the region as Nigeria’s most valuable but underutilised resource.
He argued that agriculture, if properly harnessed, could surpass oil as the country’s main revenue source.
“We can make more money from agriculture than oil,” he said.
Security as prerequisite for growth
Obi emphasised that insecurity remains the biggest barrier to development, particularly in northern Nigeria.
He called for a comprehensive approach that combines investment in agriculture, poverty reduction and improved access to education and healthcare.
He also cited his experience as governor, claiming decisive leadership helped curb crime in Anambra State.
Rising debt and economic mismanagement
A significant part of Obi’s critique focused on Nigeria’s growing debt profile, which he described as unsustainable.
He noted the sharp increase in borrowing over recent administrations, arguing that the funds have not translated into visible development.
“Today, we are approaching N200 trillion in debt without commensurate results,” he said.
He also criticised ongoing borrowing despite the removal of subsidies, adding that government finances remain under strain.
Unity, leadership and democratic reforms
Obi concluded with a call for Nigerians to reject divisive politics based on ethnicity and religion, urging voters to prioritise competence and integrity.
“Do not vote for me because of where I come from or my religion. Vote based on capacity and commitment,” he said.
He also called for stronger democratic institutions, urging the government to support opposition parties rather than suppress them.
“A vibrant opposition is essential for accountability,” he added.
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