Labour Party (LP)’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has suggested that the 2027 general election could be his last attempt at Nigeria’s top office, hinting at a possible retirement from active politics after that.
In a video shared recently on the LP’s WhatsApp platform, Obi addressed a group of young Nigerians, stating that age and political realities might discourage him from contesting in future elections beyond 2027.
“I believe we should have a retirement age for politicians. By 2027, I will be 65. If the presidency returns to the North in 2031, it may not come back 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,” he said in the seven-minute video.
His comment has raised concerns about his long-term political plans and the future of the LP’s leadership.
While confirming his intention to run on the LP platform in 2027, the former Anambra State governor admitted that this could be his final bid, due to both personal reasons and political timing. He stressed the importance of giving way to younger Nigerians with fresh ideas.
Even if he steps back from contesting, Obi promised to support young people who are committed to meaningful change in the country.
“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 said.
His media aide, Umar Ibrahim, confirmed the video was recorded recently, though he could not give the exact date.
Obi also used the opportunity to speak on the internal crises rocking opposition parties, blaming the current government for allegedly interfering in the affairs of both the LP and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“What is happening in the Labour Party and the PDP is caused by the government. Quote me anywhere,” Obi claimed, alleging that the ruling party is working to weaken opposition voices.
He compared the current situation to what obtained during the tenure of former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, who he said once intervened to ensure stability in opposition parties. Obi argued that such leadership is lacking today, and that Nigeria’s democracy cannot grow without a strong and united opposition.
He also urged Nigerians to protect the democratic process by defending the integrity of their votes, warning that any serious reform would be resisted by those benefitting from the current system.
With this latest message, Obi has made it clear that while he remains determined to contest in 2027, his participation beyond that is highly unlikely — both due to age and his belief in leadership renewal.
