ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in Nigeria’s 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has declared that he is not interested in any coalition whose primary aim is merely to gain power.
Speaking on Monday at a national conference on strengthening democracy in Abuja, Obi emphasized his focus on the growth and well-being of Nigerians.
He said, “For me, what is important is let’s discuss Nigeria. Whether we are going to do a coalition, let’s talk about the future of the country.
“But often, we abandon the country, and what we need to do is talk about power grab. I’m not interested in any coalition for the purpose of taking power.”
The event, organized by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD), Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), Westminster for Democracy (WfD), Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa (PAACA), and the National Peace Committee, brought together stakeholders to discuss Nigeria’s democratic challenges.
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Although Obi did not confirm rumors of ongoing merger talks between opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections, speculations persist about possible alliances involving him, PDP’s Atiku Abubakar, and NNPP’s Rabiu Kwankwaso.
In 2024, there were reports suggesting plans by the three to set aside their differences and form a formidable coalition to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Obi, however, stressed that discussions about Nigeria’s future should prioritize addressing critical issues such as insecurity, poverty, and education.
“It is about discussing Nigeria. How do we care about securing the Nigerians? How do we care about the common person in Nigeria? How do we care about our children being in school? That is the most important thing for now,” he said.
The former presidential candidate also criticized the monetization of politics, warning that leadership should be about selfless service rather than amassing wealth.
He expressed concern that the current administration under President Bola Tinubu is failing to address the economic and poverty crises plaguing the country.
“Nigeria under Tinubu is not working,” Obi declared, adding that the country continues to breed poverty daily.
Obi’s remarks come amid ongoing public debate on the future of democracy in Nigeria and the role of opposition parties in shaping the country’s political landscape.