Peter Obi and Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed
Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 election, has defended his capacity to transform Nigeria, citing his achievements as governor of Anambra State.
Obi spoke after his former running mate, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, claimed that none of the politicians seeking to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027, including Obi, had what it takes to improve the country.
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In an interview previewed by Arise Television on Monday, Obi said his administration would restore discipline in governance, reduce the cost of running government and confront corruption.
According to him, his performance in Anambra demonstrated that he could deliver similar results at the national level.
«“I passed through Anambra State, and I improved the state in critical areas of development. And I can do the same thing in Nigeria,” Obi said.»
He added that his first priority would be to restore civility and order in government while eliminating unnecessary expenditure.
«“I am sure that if given the opportunity, first I will bring civility and order in governance, and I will be able to cut costs of governance, which is irresponsible today. I will be able to do quite a number of things that will bring honour and respect to the country.”»
Obi also outlined several areas he intends to focus on, including fighting corruption, reducing waste, strengthening law and order and ensuring credible elections.
«“I will fight corruption; I will deal with issues of waste, law and order, and rigging won’t take place under my watch; political parties will function, and things will be done properly,” he said.»
The former Anambra governor further identified national unity and security as key priorities, alongside investments in healthcare, education and poverty reduction.
«“I will focus on our priorities to unite the country, as it’s not united today, and secure the country. Secondly, secure the country. Thirdly, to ensure we prioritise critical areas of development, like health, education and pulling people out of poverty,” Obi said.»
Baba-Ahmed, who served as Obi’s running mate on the Labour Party ticket during the 2023 presidential election, made his comments during an interview on the Mic On Podcast, hosted by Seun Okinbaloye and published on Saturday.
He had advised President Tinubu to prepare to leave office, but argued that none of the politicians contesting against him would be capable of improving Nigeria.
«“I will simply advise Uncle (Tinubu) to please prepare to hand over and move away, but not to the people contesting against him because none of them will improve Nigeria,” Baba-Ahmed said.»
When asked whether he was referring to all the opposition candidates, Baba-Ahmed responded that those challenging Tinubu had, at various times, been politically connected.
Asked specifically if Peter Obi was included among those he believed could not improve Nigeria, Baba-Ahmed replied, “Including Peter Obi, I’m sorry to say.”
