Peter Obi: 2027 alliance with Atiku depends on parties, not personal step-down

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), said he cannot step down for his counterpart from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, ahead of the 2027 elections. Speaking in an interview with Arise Television that aired on Thursday, Obi explained that at this stage of politicking, the decision to form a joint ticket is a matter for the political parties, not the individuals involved.

He stressed that he and Atiku are candidates of different parties, so any alliance would require the parties to come together, not just two leaders agreeing over a drink. Obi also rejected claims that he had ever agreed to be Atiku’s running mate, saying his statement was unequivocal and that he was never in a position where such an offer was made and refused.

The clarification matters because it shapes opposition strategy for the 2027 presidency, indicating that a direct Obi‑Atiku joint ticket is off the table and that any coalition would need party‑level negotiations. It also reaffirms his earlier denial that he ever accepted or was offered the vice‑presidential slot.

Will opposition parties find another way to unite behind a single candidate, or will Nigerians decide based on the individual merits of Obi, Atiku and other contenders in the upcoming election?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/09/10/2027-why-i-cant-step-down-for-atiku-peter-obi/