Obi: I never said I’ll settle for VP in 2027 — fifth columnists distorted my remarks

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 elections, says he never declared that he would accept to be a vice-presidential candidate in the 2027 elections.

On Wednesday, Obi spoke in an interview with News Central Television.

The former governor of Anambra was quoted by some reports as saying he would consider a vice-presidential role if he found a candidate who could perform better than him.

Reacting to the claim in a post on his X page on Saturday, Obi alleged that “some fifth columnists resorted to propaganda, deliberately distorting the narrative.”

The former Anambra governor said he was surprised by the misinterpretation of his statement, adding that he is not desperate to be president, but determined to make Nigeria work.

“I have been inundated with calls and concerns regarding the interview I granted to News Central TV,” Obi said.

“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.

“When I was asked about collaboration, 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.

“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. As I have always maintained, I am not desperate to become president, but I am determined to see Nigeria work.

“Likewise, I am not desperate for any position at all as I believe I can make contributions as I am already doing without occupying any. 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.”