Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has outlined his vision for defeating the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections. According to Obi, the key to unseating the APC lies in a united opposition and a fundamental shift in Nigeria’s political culture towards development, competence, and compassion.
Obi made these remarks during an official visit to the office of Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, on Friday. In his speech, Obi emphasized that opposition parties must work together for the greater good of Nigeria, rather than focusing on individual ambitions. “It’s no longer about us — it’s about our country,” he stated. “Our politics must change. It must be the politics of development, competence, capacity, and compassion.”
The former governor of Anambra also pointed out that collaborating within the opposition is crucial not for personal gain, but for the betterment of Nigeria and its people. “When we work together, things will be good and get better for the future,” Obi concluded.
Governor Bala Mohammed responded by extending a public invitation for Peter Obi to rejoin the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), urging unity within the opposition. He stressed that the opposition must come together to rescue Nigeria from the failings of the current APC-led government. “The opposition — PDP, ADC, SDP, LP — must come together. We must harmonize our interests in the interest of the people of Nigeria,” he declared.
Bala Mohammed also lauded Obi for his contributions to Nigerian politics, particularly highlighting his efforts in health and education during his tenure as governor of Anambra. “You have spoken on two critical areas — health and education. We know your passion and what you did in Anambra State. This is the kind of insight and roadmap we need for Nigeria,” said the Bauchi governor.
Furthermore, Bala Mohammed criticized the APC administration, emphasizing that leadership should not be about seasonal politics or token gestures. He urged Nigerian politicians to demonstrate empathy, planning, and understanding of the people’s challenges. “Politics is not about sharing rice during Sallah or Christmas. It is about understanding where the shoe pinches and acting accordingly,” he added.
In closing, Bala Mohammed reiterated the need for opposition unity, warning that disunity would only serve the interests of the ruling party. He also reiterated his invitation for Obi to return to the PDP, stating, “That’s where you belong. Don’t go anywhere else.”
The meeting concluded with Bala Mohammed offering his full support to Peter Obi and emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts to present a united opposition front that could challenge the APC and create a better future for Nigeria.