2027: Obi meets Jonathan, seeks united front on Nigeria’s future

Former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, on Monday met with former President Goodluck Jonathan as part of ongoing consultations ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Mr Obi disclosed that the meeting, which also involved notable leaders from the South-east, focused on Nigeria’s future and the need for collective action to address the country’s pressing challenges. The visit is the latest in a series of consultations by political actors across party lines as early alignments begin to shape ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Nigeria last held general elections in February and March 2023, which produced President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Since then, the country has faced persistent economic pressures, including high inflation, currency volatility, and subsidy reforms, alongside ongoing security concerns in several regions.

According to Mr Obi, discussions with Mr Jonathan were centred on restoring unity, improving security, stabilising the economy, and promoting inclusive governance.

“At a time when our nation continues to grapple with economic hardship, rising insecurity, and deepening social divisions, it has become imperative that leaders across regions come together to reflect, consult, and act in the overall interest of the Nigerian people,” he said.

Mr Obi, who was the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in 2023 and secured significant support among young and urban voters, stressed the need for a shift in leadership approach. He urged political actors to prioritise competence, character, and compassion over personal ambition.

“Nigeria today requires leadership that is guided not by personal ambition, but by competence, character, capacity, and compassion,” he said.

He also called for a transition from a consumption-driven economy to a production-based system that better utilises Nigeria’s human and natural resources.

Mr Jonathan, who served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015, has remained an influential figure in national and regional diplomacy, often engaging in peacebuilding and electoral observation missions across Africa.

Mr Obi described the 2027 elections as a critical opportunity to reset Nigeria’s trajectory, urging leaders to focus on the needs of citizens, including access to quality education, economic opportunities, and security.

He expressed optimism that sustained dialogue and unity of purpose among political leaders could help reposition the country for long-term stability and growth.