Peter Obi says he is better prepared to tackle Nigeria’s economy and security if elected in 2027, dismisses ADC running mate rumours and urges supporters to avoid violence

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has declared that he is better prepared than other aspirants to tackle Nigeria’s economic and security challenges if elected president in 2027.

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Obi made the statement during an interactive session with Nigerians on X Space, where he responded to questions on governance, the economy and political alliances.

He said his experience in building and managing a business from scratch distinguished him from other political contenders.

“I know how to turn Nigeria around. I built my business from scratch and have more experience than any candidate, including the sitting President. I’m a finance person. I know how to manage finance,” Obi said.

He argued that economic reform was central to addressing insecurity, noting that poverty and unemployment were major drivers of crime and instability.

Obi said his administration would prioritise small businesses and manufacturing, describing them as the foundation of sustainable economic growth in developed economies.

“With me in charge, small businesses and manufacturers will thrive because I will focus on growing them. They are the economic drivers in developed countries,” he said.

Obi dismissed speculation that he was seeking to become a running mate to a presidential candidate under the African Democratic Congress coalition, insisting that he would contest the election as a presidential candidate.

He confirmed his support for the ADC-led coalition and said he had been involved in it from its early stages, describing cooperation among opposition groups as necessary to address Nigeria’s challenges.

“None of us can predict tomorrow. Let us enter the coalition with an open mind. We can’t solve Nigeria’s problems by bullying. We can solve them by putting the right people to manage our affairs,” Obi said.

Obi urged his supporters, popularly known as “Obidients,” to avoid violence, insults and online abuse, even when provoked by political opponents.

Responding to complaints from a supporter in Akwa Ibom State about attacks by some coalition figures, Obi said personal insults did not affect his resolve to seek office.

“All the insults do not bother me. If calling me stupid or an idiot will solve Nigeria’s problems, I’m ready to go to court and change my name to ‘Obi Stupid’,” he said.

He encouraged supporters to counter misinformation with facts, engage opponents respectfully and focus on constructive political dialogue.