‘Peter Obi Will Be On The Ballot In 2027’ – Tanko Affirms Amidst ADC’s Request

The former campaign spokesman for Peter Obi and National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Yunusa Tanko, has urged the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to give Obi more time for consultations before deciding on his involvement in the party.

Tanko’s comments came in response to statements by ADC spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi, who emphasised that the party was not focused on zoning and was prioritising its message as a credible alternative to Nigeria’s political establishment.

In an interview with Sunday Punch, Abdullahi had reiterated that the ADC was not ready to adopt Obi’s stance on zoning.

He said, “We’re not talking about zoning or no zoning now. Nigerians are still waiting for us to tell them what we will do differently. Zoning is not on the table right now. If that’s the condition for Obi to join us, maybe he should wait until that time.”

He further added that the primary objective of the ADC was to convince Nigerians of its credibility, regardless of the candidate’s origin.

“The most important thing for us is how we can convince Nigerians that we represent a credible alternative, and this is without prejudice to where the candidate will come from,” Abdullahi said.

Tanko Calls For Consultation

Responding to the ADC’s position, Tanko stressed that Obi needed more time to conduct thorough consultations with his supporters and constituents before making any final decisions.

He said, “Obi needs to embark on a wide consultation with his constituency, which includes the Obidient Movement Worldwide. They strongly believe in him and in any decision he has to take.”

Tanko further clarified that Obi was consulting with stakeholders across the world to ensure that he was not caught off guard and could make an informed decision regarding his 2027 presidential bid.

He added, “I want to appeal to them to give him ample time so he doesn’t make a mistake. The stakes are high as many believe in him.”

Tanko urged the ADC and other political stakeholders to allow Obi the necessary time to make a well-informed decision on his political future, ahead of the 2027 elections.

“My appeal to the ADC and others waiting on him is to understand his position and wait for him to make a decision,” he said.

Obi’s Potential 2027 Presidential Bid

Tanko also hinted that Obi was still determined to run in the 2027 presidential election, reiterating that the North should wait until 2031. “The presidency has been zoned to the South, and the North should wait till 2031,” he said.

He also expressed concern that altering the zoning arrangement might benefit the ruling party. Tanko further stated, “We cannot tilt the position of the Nigerian people on the altar of political patronage. Otherwise, 2027 will just be a walk in the park for the ruling party.”

Tanko expressed confidence that Obi would indeed be on the ballot in 2027, though he could not specify when Obi would make his official announcement.

“By the grace of God, Obi will definitely be on the ballot for 2027. He has promised to disclose his position soon. Although I can’t promise you whether this year or not, he will soon speak on this,” Tanko added.

He took the opportunity to thank Nigerians for their patience, acknowledging the complexity of the decision Obi was facing.

“This is a very delicate decision to make, but it is one we have to take for the survival of democracy in the country,” Tanko stated.

He also alluded to efforts to block Obi’s path to the presidency, saying, “We are aware there are serious attempts to stop and deny him the ticket.”

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