Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has declared himself the most prepared leader to steer Nigeria through its economic and security crises should he secure the 2027 ticket. Speaking during a live X Spaces interactive session with Nigerians, Obi emphasized his unique background as a businessman who built a corporation from the ground up — a track record he said none of the current crop of presidential aspirants, including the incumbent, can match.
“Fixing the economy will go a long way toward resolving our security challenges, because the two are inseparable,” Obi told participants. “I know how to turn Nigeria around. I built my business from scratch, and I have more experience managing finance than any candidate in the race. I am a finance person — I know how to manage money.”
Obi stressed that under his leadership, small businesses and manufacturers — the engines of growth in developed economies — would receive focused support to thrive. He dismissed rumors that he was joining the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition merely as a running mate, stating unequivocally: “I will be on the ballot in 2027.”
Addressing his supporters, Obi issued a heartfelt plea to refrain from violence or verbal abuse toward political opponents, even when provoked. The appeal came in response to a complaint from an “Obidient” in Akwa Ibom State, who reported being targeted with insults by some ADC coalition leaders.
“I fully support the coalition — I’ve been part of it since its early days,” Obi said. “None of us can predict what tomorrow holds. We must enter this alliance with open minds. We cannot solve Nigeria’s problems through bullying — only by placing the right people in charge.”
He added: “Tomorrow is dynamic. We will work with others in the coalition. Personal insults and name-calling do not affect my resolve to serve. If calling me ‘stupid’ or ‘idiot’ would solve Nigeria’s problems, I am ready to go to court and legally change my name to ‘Obi Stupid.’”
Obi urged his followers to counter misinformation with truth, engage opponents in constructive debate, and pray for those who insult them. “Let us help our opponents understand our position through reason, not rage,” he concluded







