Peter Obi is not making any promises beyond 2027. In a heartfelt video shared on the Labour Party’s WhatsApp platform, the former Anambra governor and 2023 presidential hopeful admitted that “I may not contest again after 2027.” That simple sentence is already shaking the political space — and raising questions about what’s next.
Obi confirmed he plans to run in 2027 under the Labour Party. But that might be his last time on the ballot. “By then, I’ll be 65,” he said. “And if the presidency goes North in 2031, it might not come back South until 2039. I’ll be 77 by then. I don’t want to be running for office at that age. It will only ruin things.”
That short clip — just over seven minutes long — struck a chord with many. Obi wasn’t just talking politics; he was opening up. He said it’s time to rethink how long politicians stay in the game. “We need to talk about retirement age for people in politics,” he said.
While he’s considering stepping aside after 2027, he promised not to walk away from the movement. “Even if I may not contest again after 2027, I’ll still support those who mean well and want real change,” he said. He pledged to back young Nigerians with any help he can give — resources, guidance, and encouragement.
You can watch how Obi’s message is already stirring conversations. His aide, Umar Ibrahim, confirmed the video was recorded just recently.
Obi also took a hard swing at the ruling government. He said the unrest in opposition parties, including Labour and the PDP, isn’t accidental. “The government is behind it,” he claimed. “They want to break the opposition from inside.”
He even brought up a moment from Nigeria’s political past to prove his point. When things got tense years ago, he said former President Yar’Adua stepped in and helped stabilize parties. “He told INEC to let things run smoothly. Problems got fixed,” Obi recalled. “Now? It’s like everyone’s party is under attack — and it’s on purpose.”
That kind of interference, he said, weakens democracy. And without strong opposition parties, real change is impossible. If elected, Obi said he’d focus on solving those deep-rooted issues. But he also urged Nigerians not to sit back. “If you care about your vote, defend it,” he warned. “Reform won’t be easy. Those benefiting from the chaos will fight back.”
Peter Obi’s message is clear: “I may not contest again after 2027,” but that doesn’t mean the mission ends. His focus is shifting — from chasing office to mentoring those ready to carry the torch.
