I’m Determined To See Nigeria Work, Ready To Partner Other Candidates — Obi

The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has said he is open to partnering with those who share his vision for advancing Nigeria’s progress.

Since his interview on News Central Television went viral on Thursday, the former Anambra governor expressed concerns that he had been receiving calls from his supporters and members of the Obidient Movement seeking to know if he has truly shelved his presidential ambition.

In a series of posts via his official X handle on Saturday, Obi emphasized he is not desperate to become president or any position but is determined to see Nigeria develop.

The former Anambra State Governor insisted that he didn’t declare at any point in the interview that he would be vice president to anybody.

Obi said he does not want to be one of those preoccupied with 2027 while Nigerians are suffering from hunger, poverty, insecurity, and other pressing challenges.

He said, “I have been inundated with calls and concerns regarding the interview I granted to News Central TV. In that interview, I took the opportunity it provided to explain my position in detail. However, some fifth columnists have resorted to propaganda, deliberately distorting the narrative.

“Let me reiterate clearly what I said, which is on record. I do not want to be one of those preoccupied with 2027 while Nigerians are suffering from hunger, poverty, insecurity, and other pressing challenges.

“I explicitly stated my openness to working with others, provided their intentions were not centred on state capture. I emphasized my commitment to partnering with those who share my vision for advancing Nigeria’s progress.”

The former governor stated that he remains committed to the Labour Party, adding that he is committed to bringing millions of out-of-school children back into classrooms.

“I also made it clear that I remain committed to the Labour Party, and if anyone wishes to negotiate or join forces, they must disclose their true intentions. When 2027 arrives, if I decide to run for any office, it will not be with those whose sole aim is state capture or merely winning an election.

“I want them to explain how we will ensure that no child is left behind and how we will bring millions of out-of-school children back into classrooms, ensure healthy living and pull people out of poverty.

“My statement was unequivocal, and I am genuinely surprised by the misrepresentation of my words. For the avoidance of doubts, I never stated at any time that I would be vice president to anyone and it’s unequivocal.

“I have consistently maintained that I am open to working with those committed to building a new Nigeria. My commitment to Nigeria remains steadfast, and I even believe it is possible to contribute to its progress without occupying any office as I am already doing, ” he added.