Obi declares He May Not Contest in 2027, Alleges ‘Deliberate Frustration’ by Government

Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, says he is facing mounting pressure ahead of the 2027 general election and is uncertain if he will even be alive to contest.

Obi spoke during an interview on _With Chude_, hosted by media personality Chude Jideonwo. The interview was shared on X on Wednesday.

When asked if Nigerians should expect to see him on the ballot in 2027, the former Anambra governor gave a bleak outlook.

“Not even a candidate. I might not even be alive. I’m telling you. Every single thing I do for a living, this government is frustrating it. Deliberately so. Everything. So, there is even a possibility, if they have the opportunity, I will not be alive,” he said.

Obi said he was not making a direct accusation against anyone, but insisted there are deliberate efforts to create obstacles around his daily activities and business interests. He added that while the interference may not be open, he has noticed clear signs in several situations.

The former governor claimed the treatment extends beyond him, alleging that many opposition figures are experiencing similar challenges.

“They are attacking everybody who is in opposition personally,” he said. He also alleged that he has been denied basic entitlements due to him.

Obi cited an incident at an airport where, according to him, officials locked only his vehicle while other parked cars were left untouched.

“But I said, ‘Look at the cars of other people.’ And you could see them talking to each other, as if, ‘Who is this one?’” he recounted. He said he identified himself and questioned the officer, but got no response.

He further alleged that some of his associates now avoid being seen with him out of fear of possible consequences.

“I have people send me invitations and say, ‘My son, my daughter is wedding, but please don’t come,’” Obi said, adding that some supporters have asked him to stay away from family events like weddings due to concerns over backlash.

As of press time, there has been no official response from the Presidency to Obi’s claims