Amid swirling political speculation about opposition alliances ahead of the 2027 presidential election, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide has flatly rejected claims that the former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, is negotiating to become the running mate of former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar.
In an exclusive interview with PUNCH, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, a leading Obidient Movement official and close ally of Obi, dismissed reports suggesting that Obi might accept a vice‑presidential slot under a coalition with Atiku.
Tanko described such reports as unfounded and reiterated that Obi’s political ambition is solely focused on the presidency.
“We have never put that on the table. Obi is running for the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. No more, no less,” he said.
Clarifying the Record
The clarification comes in the wake of persistent rumours that Atiku had either offered or was considering offering Obi the number‑two spot on a joint ticket in a bid to unite opposition forces and unseat President Bola Tinubu in 2027. Those reports gained traction late last year when some political sources suggested that Atiku’s camp was exploring southern running‑mate options — with Obi’s name mentioned among possible picks.
However, the Obidient Movement’s response has been consistent: Peter Obi’s presidential ambition is his priority, and he is not contemplating a vice‑presidential role in any coalition. Recent clarifications from the movement’s leadership have underscored this position, repeating that their support for Obi remains focused strictly on his bid for the highest office in the land.
Broader Political Context
Obi formally defected from the Labour Party to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), in Enugu State, where he rallied for opposition unity against economic hardship and governance challenges.
At that event, he highlighted the need for Nigerians to coalesce around issues such as poverty, disunity, and democratic decline — rather than merely negotiate political positions.
The exchanges have also sparked debate within opposition circles. Some figures argue that pragmatic political alliances are essential to challenge the incumbent administration effectively. At the same time, other stakeholders — including prominent academics and political commentators — have insisted that Obi should not accept a subordinate role if it compromises his own presidential aspirations.
What Obi Himself Has Said
Beyond his allies, Obi has on multiple occasions publicly reiterated that he intends to contest for president and is not interested in being anyone’s running mate. In past interviews, the former governor made it clear that the idea of serving as vice president — especially after his extensive experience and political base — is not something he’s considering.
Bottom Line:
The Obidient Movement coordinator has put to rest speculation about Peter Obi negotiating for Atiku Abubakar’s running mate slot in 2027. Both the movement and Obi himself maintain that his focus remains on winning the presidency — not on serving in a subordinate role.