If I become president, I won’t rule by decree, Nigerians will feel the difference — Peter Obi

Amid growing questions about his role in Nigeria’s emerging opposition coalition, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has stressed that he is not desperate to lead but determined to help fix the country.

Speaking during a live XSpace session on Sunday night, June 29, Obi addressed speculation over whether he would accept a vice-presidential slot in the coalition. While he didn’t give a definitive answer, he made his position clear:

“I won’t say I must have the ticket. That’s not leadership. You must work with others, consult widely, and put Nigeria first,” he said.

Obi confirmed he remains deeply involved in coalition talks but emphasised they are currently focused on building a strong structure, not on picking candidates.

“We haven’t reached the stage of choosing candidates. Right now, we’re discussing how to come together for Nigeria’s sake. This is not a Peter Obi movement — it’s a people’s coalition. I’ll only move forward based on what Nigerians and those I work with believe is best,” he said.

He highlighted his leadership style as consultative, inclusive, and rooted in humility.

“I’ve never made any major political move without consulting my team and supporters. That’s how I left the PDP, that’s how I joined Labour, and that’s how I lead,” he noted.

Obi also shared what Nigerians could expect if he eventually becomes president:

“If I become president, I won’t rule by decree. Nigerians will feel the difference. I’ll fast with the people, cut waste, and govern by example.”

On how he handles public insults and attacks, Obi said he doesn’t bear grudges.

“You don’t fix a broken country with bitterness. I pray for my enemies. But if you steal public money, I won’t protect you. Being friendly doesn’t mean shielding corruption. If the law finds you guilty, it must take its course. But I’ll still greet you in public — that’s who I am.”

He closed by urging Nigerians, especially the youth, not to lose faith in the country:

“The 2027 election will be different. We’ll insist our votes count — and they will. We must show the world that Nigeria can rise, not through noise or propaganda, but through sacrifice, unity, and truth.”

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