Lagos, Nigeria – January 2, 2026
Renowned political economist and former presidential aspirant Professor Pat Utomi has issued a stern warning to his longtime ally, Peter Obi, stating unequivocally that he will withdraw his support if the former Anambra State governor opts to run as a vice-presidential candidate in the 2027 general elections. This declaration comes amid swirling speculations about Obi's recent defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and potential alliances ahead of the polls.
Utomi made these remarks during an appearance on Channels Television's "Politics Today" program on January 1, 2026, where he addressed rumors linking Obi to a possible vice-presidential ticket with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar under the ADC banner. Dismissing such claims, Utomi affirmed Obi's presidential ambitions: “Peter Obi will contest for the presidency. The day he becomes somebody’s vice president, I will walk away from his corner. I can tell you that for a fact.”
The statement underscores the high stakes in Nigeria's evolving political landscape as the country gears up for the 2027 elections. Obi, who garnered significant support as the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in 2023, recently defected to the ADC on December 31, 2025, a move that has fueled debates about his strategy. Some analysts suggest the shift could facilitate coalitions, but Utomi's comments emphasize a preference for Obi to lead rather than play second fiddle.
Professor Pat Utomi, a respected figure in Nigerian academia and politics, has been a vocal advocate for good governance and economic reforms. A former presidential candidate himself under the African Democratic Congress in 2007, Utomi has consistently supported progressive causes and was a key backer of Obi's 2023 campaign. His influence extends beyond politics; as a professor of political economy and founder of the Centre for Values in Leadership, Utomi has critiqued systemic issues like corruption and inefficiency in governance.
During the interview, Utomi also lambasted the trend of elderly politicians seeking the presidency as a "retirement home" for medical care at the state's expense. “Something very important for this election to bear in mind, the Nigerian presidency has become a retirement home, where people go for the Nigerian State to pay their medical bills. It is not acceptable,” he asserted. He proposed age limits for executive positions: “Nobody over the age of 70 years should run for an executive position whether it be governor or president.”
Utomi clarified that older leaders could still contribute in legislative roles, suggesting they remain in the legislature until 75 or even close to 80. “Yes, people can stay in the legislature till their 75, possibly even close to 80, but the Nigerian people must not continue to tolerate presidency being where we keep people who need medical attention,” he added. This critique appears aimed at figures like President Bola Tinubu, who assumed office at 71 in 2023, and Atiku Abubakar, who would be 80 by 2027.
Peter Obi, 64, rose to national prominence in 2023 with a campaign focused on youth empowerment, anti-corruption, and economic revival, securing over six million votes and challenging the dominance of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). His defection from the LP to the ADC has been interpreted variously—as a strategic move for broader alliances or a bid to avoid internal party conflicts. Obi has not publicly confirmed his 2027 plans, but allies like Utomi insist on a full presidential run.
The speculation about an Atiku-Obi ticket stems from Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo's claims that Obi joined the ADC to partner with Atiku, potentially recreating their 2019 PDP alliance. Utomi rejected this outright, calling it misinformation and reaffirming Obi's independent path.
Nigeria's 2027 elections are shaping up amid economic hardships, including inflation and insecurity, which have eroded public trust in the APC-led government. Opposition figures like Obi and Atiku are positioning themselves as alternatives, but internal divisions could fragment votes. Utomi's age-limit proposal resonates with calls for generational shift, as Nigeria's youth—over 60% under 25—demand fresh leadership.
Experts note that Utomi's stance could pressure Obi to maintain his base among reform-minded supporters. Political analyst Dr. Chidi Okeke commented: “Utomi represents the ideological core of Obi's movement. Losing his endorsement would signal compromise, alienating purists.”
As campaigns intensify, Obi's next moves will be scrutinized. His 2023 success galvanized the "Obidient" movement, but sustaining momentum requires clear positioning. Utomi's warning highlights tensions between pragmatism and principle in Nigerian politics.
In broader context, Nigeria faces challenges like fiscal reforms and regional instability. Utomi's critique of the presidency as a "retirement home" echoes concerns over leaders' health, as seen in past administrations. With 2027 approaching, such debates could influence voter priorities.
