2027 Poll: NDC Anambra Rejects APGA Chairman’s Claim, Says Peter Obi Remains a Strong Contender

The Anambra State Chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has rejected comments by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Sly Ezeokenwa, questioning Mr. Peter Obi’s prospects in the 2027 presidential election.

Ezeokenwa made the remarks during an appearance on Arise Television’s The Morning Show on Wednesday, arguing that it would be in the strategic interest of the Igbo people to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid. He also stated that APGA would work to persuade voters across the South-East to support the president.

Reacting to the comments, the NDC Anambra State Chairman, Rt. Hon. Ikem Uzoezie, challenged the assessment, maintaining that the outcome of the 2027 presidential election would ultimately be determined by Nigerians through the democratic process.

“Nobody should write off the democratic choices of Nigerians before the election. The decision belongs to the electorate, and the 2027 contest will provide another opportunity for citizens to express their aspirations at the ballot box,” Uzoezie said.

Uzoezie argued that economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment and other national challenges had heightened public demand for improved governance and practical solutions.

According to him, Nigerians are looking for leadership that can address the rising cost of living, create employment opportunities, strengthen national security and restore public confidence in government institutions.

“Families are struggling to survive, young people are searching for opportunities, and communities want lasting security. Nigerians are demanding solutions that improve their lives, and every political party must be prepared to address those concerns,” he said.

The NDC chairman also pointed to what he described as Peter Obi’s support beyond the South-East, arguing that the former Anambra State governor remains a prominent figure in Nigeria’s political discourse.

“Support for a political candidate cannot be determined solely by what another party’s chairman says on television. Voters have their own expectations, and their decisions will be made through the democratic process,” Uzoezie added.

Addressing the lessons of the 2023 general election, Uzoezie emphasised the importance of electoral transparency, credible vote counting and the protection of citizens’ democratic rights.

He called on political parties, electoral institutions and citizens to uphold the integrity of the 2027 general election.

“Every vote matters. Nigerians deserve an electoral process in which their choices are accurately recorded and respected. The focus should be on protecting the democratic process and ensuring that citizens can participate freely,” he said.

On APGA’s stated intention to support President Tinubu’s re-election bid, Uzoezie acknowledged the party’s right to determine its political direction and alliances.

However, he maintained that political parties should defend their positions through clearly articulated policies, performance assessments and arguments addressing the concerns of Nigerians.

“If APGA chooses to support President Tinubu, that is its democratic right. Every party should make its case to Nigerians based on the issues that matter. There is no need to dismiss another political figure’s prospects when the electorate will ultimately determine the outcome,” he stated.

The NDC Anambra State Chapter urged Nigerians to look beyond political exchanges and demand clear answers on the economy, security, employment, education, healthcare and accountable leadership.

Uzoezie maintained that political discussions ahead of the 2027 general election should focus on practical solutions to the country’s challenges rather than assumptions about the prospects of individual political figures.

“Nigeria needs serious conversations about the future. Citizens want security, economic opportunities, accountable leadership and a government that responds to their needs. These are the issues political parties should be addressing as the country approaches 2027,” he said.

The party reiterated its position that the 2027 general election would provide Nigerians with an opportunity to assess competing political parties, candidates and policy proposals before making their choices at the ballot box.

As political consultations and alignments continue ahead of the election, the debate over Peter Obi’s prospects highlights the differing positions among political stakeholders regarding candidate viability, regional alliances and Nigeria’s political future.

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