The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has clarified his stance on potentially serving as Nigeria’s Vice President.
In a recent social media statement, Obi addressed the controversy surrounding his interview on News Central TV, where he was quoted as being open to the Vice Presidency.
Obi attributed the misrepresentation to “fifth columnists” who have resorted to propaganda.
“I never stated at any time that I would be Vice President to anyone,” Obi said. “My commitment to Nigeria remains steadfast, and I believe it’s possible to contribute to its progress without occupying any office, as I’m already doing.”
Obi said he is focused on addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges, including hunger, poverty, insecurity, and out-of-school children.
He stressed his willingness to collaborate with like-minded individuals and parties, provided their intentions align with his vision for Nigeria’s progress.
The former Anambra State Governor reaffirmed his loyalty to the Labour Party and vowed not to engage with those seeking state capture or mere electoral victories.
“I want them to explain how we will ensure no child is left behind, how we will bring millions of out-of-school children back into classrooms, ensure healthy living, and pull people out of poverty,” Obi stated.
His statement reads in full:
I have been inundated with calls and concerns regarding the interview I granted to News Central TV.
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.
