Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Chairman of the Editorial Board of Premium Times, Prof. Jibo Ibrahim, has stated that the presidential aspirant of the National Democratic Congress NDC, Peter Obi remains one of the most formidable contenders in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, with a solid and enduring support base in the South-East and South-South.
Speaking on the podcast Conversations with Prof. Jideofor Adibe, Prof. Ibrahim said Obi’s strong showing in the 2023 election has cemented his status as a key political force heading into 2027.
While lamenting that Nigeria’s opposition field continues to revolve around familiar figures, the professor of Political Science stressed that the 2027 poll is likely going to be a repeat of 2023 general elections involving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi.
According to him, Nigeria’s inability to refresh its political class remains a major democratic concern.
“The same people come out again and again,” he said.
Focusing on Obi’s prospects, Prof. Ibrahim argued that his regional strength in the South-East and South-South would again be a critical factor, particularly if voter dissatisfaction with the current administration deepens.
He also observed that the advantage Tinubu enjoyed in 2023, especially the Muslim-Muslim ticket, which helped broaden his appeal may not carry the same weight in 2027 amid growing public discontent.
While noting that 31 governors are currently aligned with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), he said such political dominance does not guarantee electoral victory.
On the wider electoral map, he said Atiku Abubakar would retain strong support in the North, while the Middle Belt could emerge as the decisive swing region.
“The 2027 elections would be an interesting case study in terms of the regional dimensions of Nigerian politics,” he added.
