The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called on politicians seeking elective positions in the 2027 elections to focus on ideas and practical solutions instead of divisive political rhetoric.
Obi made the appeal in a statement titled “Unity and Love in Politics”, which he shared on his X account on Tuesday after attending the commissioning of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) presidential campaign office in Abuja.
The former Anambra State governor said political competition should not come at the expense of national unity, urging candidates to place the interests of Nigeria above their political differences.
“I used the opportunity to emphasise the need for us to build a New Nigeria anchored on Unity, Love, Justice, mutual respect, and inclusion, particularly at a time when political contests can become unnecessarily contentious and divisive,” Obi said.
He urged politicians to make the national interest central to their campaigns and refrain from statements that could further widen existing divisions.
“We must insist that our shared love for our country should always be greater than our political differences. This is my call to all contestants in the forthcoming elections,” he said.
Obi also urged presidential candidates and other contestants to make the 2027 elections a competition based on ideas and workable solutions to the country’s challenges, including insecurity, poverty, hunger and inequality.
“Let our contest be about ideas and solutions that will address the enormous challenges facing our country today: insecurity, poverty, hunger, inequality, and the growing number of out-of-school children,” he said.
He further appealed for campaigns capable of bringing Nigerians together and restoring hope, while urging political opponents to maintain civility throughout the electoral process.
“Let us compete on ideas that will unite our people, improve their lives, and restore hope to our nation, while maintaining respect, decency, and love for one another,” Obi said.
Obi attended the commissioning with Oyo State Governor and APM presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, as well as Bauchi State Governor and party leader, Bala Mohammed.
He congratulated the governors and other leaders and members of the APM on the commissioning of the campaign office.
“I congratulate my dear brothers, Governor Seyi Makinde and Governor Bala Mohammed, as well as all the leaders and members of the APM, on this important milestone,” he added.
Obi’s presence at the event had fuelled speculation about a possible political realignment ahead of the 2027 presidential election.