2027 Election: Lagos APC Warns Peter Obi Against Relying on 2023 Popularity

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has warned Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), against relying on the political momentum he generated during the 2023 general elections to secure victory in 2027.

The party argued that Obi’s political relevance ahead of the next presidential election would depend on his ability to demonstrate ideological consistency, present credible policies and establish a strong organisational structure across the country.

The Lagos APC spokesman, Seye Oladejo, stated this on Monday in a statement titled “2027: Peter Obi and the Expiration Date of Political Momentum.”

Oladejo acknowledged that Obi’s 2023 presidential campaign attracted considerable public attention, driven by widespread dissatisfaction with the political establishment, youth participation and extensive social media engagement.

However, he argued that the popularity Obi enjoyed during the election did not automatically guarantee sustained political influence or electoral success in subsequent contests.

According to the APC spokesman, the political atmosphere that contributed to Obi’s performance in 2023 might not be replicated in 2027, making it necessary for the former Anambra State governor to strengthen his political structures and demonstrate his capacity to govern.

He maintained that public enthusiasm alone was insufficient to secure electoral victory without a well-organised political platform, consistent policy positions and effective grassroots mobilisation.

Oladejo said Obi risked losing the political support he gained in 2023 if he failed to convert the enthusiasm surrounding his candidacy into a sustainable national political movement.

He stated that electoral popularity could diminish when it was not supported by clear policies, organisational development and consistency in political positions.

The Lagos APC spokesman also questioned Obi’s movement across political parties, citing his previous affiliations with the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Labour Party (LP) and subsequent political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections.

Although he acknowledged that changing political parties was not inherently wrong, Oladejo argued that frequent movement between platforms could raise questions about a politician’s ideological commitment.

He said political parties should serve as institutions built around enduring principles rather than vehicles for individual political ambitions.

Oladejo further challenged Obi to demonstrate greater consistency in his policy proposals, particularly on issues such as inflation, unemployment, public debt and energy supply.

According to him, aspiring presidential candidates must explain how their proposed policies would work, including the financial implications, possible compromises and practical steps required to achieve their objectives.

He argued that Nigerians would expect more than campaign slogans and public declarations as they assess candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The APC spokesman also criticised Obi’s frequent use of the expression “go and verify,” arguing that some of the claims made by the former presidential candidate had attracted scrutiny over their accuracy.

He maintained that public figures should ensure that the statistics and information they present during political engagements can withstand independent verification.

Turning to the Obidient movement, which played a prominent role in Obi’s 2023 campaign, Oladejo said the group needed to evolve beyond public protests and online mobilisation if it hoped to become a sustainable national political force.

He argued that the movement would need to develop stronger organisational structures, formulate clear policy positions and establish a broader political coalition capable of competing effectively across Nigeria.

According to him, the outcome of the 2027 presidential election would depend on candidates’ ability to demonstrate competence, credibility, organisational strength and a clear vision for the country.

Oladejo, however, acknowledged that the APC could not take electoral victory for granted, noting that political success must be earned through performance and public confidence.

He insisted that Obi’s previous popularity should not create an expectation that the ruling party would surrender its electoral advantage in the next contest.

The Lagos APC spokesman concluded that political momentum should be treated as an opportunity to build lasting support rather than a guarantee of future electoral success.

The remarks come as political parties and potential presidential contenders intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections, with questions surrounding party loyalty, coalition-building, policy credibility and grassroots mobilisation expected to feature prominently in the emerging political contest.

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