By Charles Pemu 
Abuja – Former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has dismissed claims that he has agreed to serve as Vice President to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the 2027 general elections. Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Monday, Obi clarified that his involvement in any coalition is centered on improving governance, not political ambition.
“I am in a coalition against hunger, poverty, and ill health. Politics for me isn’t about positions; it’s about doing the right thing,” he said. Obi made the comments after donating ₦20 million to support a school and hospital construction project by the Anglican Church in Kubwa, Abuja. He emphasized that what Nigeria needs most is investment in education, healthcare, and job creation.
“We should be talking about how to educate our children. That’s what matters most,” he added, expressing concern over the nation’s misplaced priorities and the damaging effects of corruption on development.
In response to the same report, the Obidient Movement, a key support group for Obi, strongly refuted claims of any power-sharing deal with Atiku. Nana Kazaure, the movement’s Director of Strategic Communications, said the rumours were baseless and misleading. She noted that Obi remains firmly in the Labour Party and would personally announce any change if such a move were ever considered.
“The publication is false. Mr. Obi’s commitment to coalition efforts is solely focused on tackling bad governance, corruption, and poverty,” Kazaure stated. She urged Nigerians and the media to avoid unnecessary speculation and focus on promoting meaningful political discourse.
Meanwhile, Atiku Abubakar’s media adviser, Paul Ibe, acknowledged that opposition leaders, including Atiku and Obi, are holding talks to form a viable coalition ahead of the 2027 elections. However, he clarified that no final agreements or power-sharing arrangements have been concluded.
“Leaders are still working out the details. While there has been progress, it’s too early to confirm any arrangements,” Ibe said. He added that the aim is to build a strong, united front capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
As coalition talks continue, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), one of the political parties reportedly being considered as a merger platform, is amending its constitution to allow easier entry for new political actors. Its national chairman, Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu, announced he would step down to pave the way for new leadership. He also revealed that the party would now allow new members to immediately enjoy full membership rights, including the ability to contest elections.
“Before now, you were required to spend at least two years as a member before contesting, but now, as soon as you join, you will begin to enjoy the rights and privileges of membership,” Nwosu said.
While rumours of a formal Obi-Atiku alliance remain unconfirmed, efforts to build a broad opposition coalition appear to be gaining momentum. For now, leaders remain focused on building consensus and outlining a common strategy for 2027.