The Labour Party’s National Secretary, Umar Farouk Ibrahim, has declared that former presidential candidate Peter Obi will not contest the 2027 presidential election, attributing his continued prominence to media attention rather than political ambition. The statement came during an appearance on Trust TV, as reported by Arise News.
Farouk asserted that former President Goodluck Jonathan and Obi lack the strength to defeat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 race. He described opposition parties as “demoralised,” arguing that Tinubu is politically comfortable. “If you look at those contesting with Tinubu, are these real opponents?” he questioned.
He added that Obi has distanced himself from the Labour Party and rejected offers to run for president in 2027. “Obi is not going to contest presidential election … He is enjoying media publicity but 2027, he is not interested in it,” Farouk said.
According to Lens News, the remarks deepen existing fault lines within the Labour Party, especially as the party grapples with internal leadership disputes and the challenge of mounting a viable opposition strategy.
While Farouk’s statement draws a line under speculations about Obi’s candidacy, it contradicts repeated declarations from Obi and his supporters about remaining politically engaged. His decision not to run could create a vacuum in the opposition space as several parties seek to present a credible alternative to the ruling APC.
The pronouncement has evoked varied reactions across political circles. Some analysts see it as strategic misdirection, while others predict it intensifies debates over party identity, leadership, and coalition politics in the lead-up to 2027.
Observers will be watching closely to see whether Obi issues a direct response or whether LP clarifies its official stance on the looming election.
