Peter Obi Refuses to Step Down for Atiku Ahead of 2027

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), declared in an interview aired on September 8 that he will not step down for Atiku Abubakar in the lead-up to the 2027 presidential election. Obi insisted that any potential opposition alliance should be negotiated at a higher level rather than between the two candidates.

He likened the situation to a corporate merger, indicating that the dynamics have changed since their previous collaboration. Obi and Atiku were part of a 2025 opposition coalition that adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its platform, but the coalition did not produce a joint presidential ticket.

Atiku was ratified as the ADC candidate, while Obi became the NDC's presidential candidate on May 29, 2026. Obi also denied rejecting an offer to serve as Atiku's running mate, stating he was never in a position to refuse such an offer.

He emphasized the need for elections to be free from tribalism and discussed his campaign priorities, including economic policies and national unity.