The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2027 election, Peter Obi, has defended his record as governor of Anambra State, saying his achievements in the state demonstrate his ability to improve Nigeria if elected president.
Obi’s comments followed remarks by his former running mate, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, who argued that none of the politicians seeking to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, including Obi, could transform the country.
Speaking in an interview previewed by Arise Television on Monday, Obi outlined his proposed approach to governance, including reducing government expenditure, tackling corruption and restoring order in the country.
“I passed through Anambra State, and I improved the state in critical areas of development. And I can do the same thing in Nigeria,” Obi said.
The former Anambra governor said his administration would prioritise efficiency and accountability while reducing what he described as excessive government spending.
“I am sure that if given the opportunity, first I will bring civility and order in governance, and I will be able to cut costs of governance, which is irresponsible today. I will be able to do quite a number of things that will bring honour and respect to the country.”
Asked about specific measures he would implement, Obi said his administration would focus on fighting corruption, eliminating waste, strengthening law and order and preventing electoral malpractice.
“I will fight corruption; I will deal with issues of waste, law and order, and rigging won’t take place under my watch; political parties will function, and things will be done properly,” he said.
He also listed national unity, security, healthcare, education and poverty reduction among the areas he would prioritise if elected.
“I will focus on our priorities to unite the country, as it’s not united today, and secure the country. Secondly, secure the country. Thirdly, to ensure we prioritise critical areas of development, like health, education and pulling people out of poverty,” Obi added.
Baba-Ahmed, who was Obi’s running mate on the Labour Party ticket during the 2023 presidential election, made his comments during an interview on the Mic On Podcast hosted by Seun Okinbaloye and published on Saturday.
“I will simply advise Uncle (Tinubu) to please prepare to hand over and move away, but not to the people contesting against him because none of them will improve Nigeria,” he said.
When asked if he was referring to all opposition candidates, Baba-Ahmed said, “Tinubu should leave the stage. All those people contesting against him, too—they were all in bed together at some point or another.”
Asked specifically whether Peter Obi was included among those he was referring to, Baba-Ahmed replied, “Including Peter Obi, I’m sorry to say.”