Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has indicated that the 2027 general elections could mark his final bid for Nigeria’s highest office. In a recent video message shared on the party’s WhatsApp platform, Obi spoke directly to young Nigerians about his plans and the future of his political career.
“I believe we should have a retirement age for politicians. By 2027, I will be 65. If the presidency goes back to the North in 2031, it may not return to the South until 2039 — by then, I will be 77. I wouldn’t want to run for office at that age. It would make a mess of everything,” Obi said.
Though signaling a possible exit from active politics after 2027, Obi assured continued support for youth committed to national transformation. “Even if I’m not contesting, I will always support those of you who are committed to real change, with whatever resources I can provide,” he added.
Obi also criticized the ruling government for destabilizing opposition parties. “What is happening in the Labour Party and the PDP is caused by the government. Quote me anywhere,” he declared. He blamed deliberate interference aimed at weakening the opposition and recalled how former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua once helped resolve similar crises.
Nigeria’s democracy, Obi stressed, depends on strong opposition parties, and he vowed to address structural challenges if elected.
He also called on Nigerians to defend the integrity of their votes, warning that reform efforts would face resistance from those benefiting from the status quo.
