Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, is back in the political spotlight following a series of closed-door meetings with major Nigerian power players including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the new Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rasheed Ladoja.
The meetings, which took place on Sunday, September 14, 2025, have stirred fresh speculation about Obi’s political intentions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
🔍 Inside the Meetings: What We Know
While the meetings were held behind closed doors, here’s what we’ve gathered from credible sources and Obi’s own statements:
✅ Key Attendees
Peter Obi wasn’t alone. He was accompanied by familiar faces from his 2023 presidential campaign, including:
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Dr. Yunusa Tanko – Obi's campaign spokesperson.
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Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour (GRV) – 2023 Labour Party gubernatorial candidate in Lagos.
The group visited both Obasanjo and Oba Ladoja in what Obi described on his official Facebook page as conversations focused on “the state of our nation.”
🗨️ Obi’s Official Statement
In his own words, Obi said the meetings were about “promoting unity, fairness, equity, and justice in Nigeria.” He added that Nigeria's current challenges require “inclusive dialogue” with respected leaders and stakeholders from all parts of the country.
However, he did not share any specific details of what was discussed.
🧩 Why Are These Meetings Significant?
The secrecy around the content of the discussions has only heightened political curiosity.
Political watchers and analysts believe these meetings may be part of strategic consultations as Obi prepares to either:
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Reignite a presidential ambition in 2027, or
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Broker alliances for Labour Party’s future within a new political movement.
This visit comes shortly after another private meeting between Peter Obi and former President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja — suggesting a pattern of behind-the-scenes mobilization.
🧓🏽 Who Are the Political Figures Involved?
🟠 Olusegun Obasanjo
A former military head of state turned democratically elected president (1999–2007), Obasanjo remains one of Nigeria’s most influential elder statesmen.
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In 2023, he openly endorsed Peter Obi for president, a rare move for a former president.
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Obasanjo has also been a vocal critic of the current Tinubu-led administration.
His influence spans across Nigeria’s regions and political parties, and any visible alignment with Obi could send a powerful message ahead of 2027.
🟣 Oba Rasheed Ladoja
Though recently crowned as the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Ladoja is no stranger to politics:
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He served as the Governor of Oyo State from 2003 to 2007.
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He is widely respected in the South-West geopolitical zone as an elder statesman.
Meeting the Olubadan is not just a traditional courtesy — it’s also a strategic political move. For any serious presidential hopeful, building bridges in the South-West, the stronghold of current President Bola Tinubu, is essential.
🗳️ The 2027 Race: Too Early or Already Underway?
While Nigeria is still over a year away from the 2027 campaign season, behind-the-scenes political maneuvers have clearly begun.
🚩 Peter Obi’s Possible Roadmap:
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Strengthening regional alliances, especially in the South-West and South-South.
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Reengaging political mentors and national figures like Obasanjo and Jonathan.
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Reviving the Labour Party base, especially among young voters and urban professionals.
Analysts believe Obi is exploring how to form a broader coalition that could stand as a formidable alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) — possibly working with disaffected PDP members, regional leaders, or even new movements.
📣 What Political Analysts Are Saying
According to political strategist Ayo Balogun:
“Obi knows that winning a presidential election in Nigeria requires more than urban youth support and social media buzz. These meetings show he’s now playing the real political game — alliances, consensus-building, and endorsements.”
Another commentator, Hauwa Musa, added:
“It’s not just about 2027. These consultations may influence state-level dynamics in the 2027 gubernatorial and National Assembly elections as well. The Labour Party is trying to grow roots.”
⚖️ Final Thoughts: Is Peter Obi Running in 2027?
While he hasn’t declared his intention, the signs are clear that Peter Obi remains politically active and influential. His recent moves point to a man who understands that winning in Nigeria means combining moral credibility with political strategy.
Whether he plans to run or simply shape the next political coalition, one thing is certain: Peter Obi is not stepping away from the national conversation.
✍️ Stay Tuned
As more details unfold, keep following Wheytindey for in-depth political analysis and updates on Nigeria’s journey toward the 2027 elections.
Let us know in the comments:
Do you think Peter Obi should run again in 2027?
Would a coalition between him and Obasanjo-backed figures stand a chance against the APC?
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