Peter Obi Rejects Power-Driven Coalitions, Demands Focus on Nigerians’ Welfare

The Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has expressed disinterest in any coalition aimed solely at seizing power without prioritizing the welfare of Nigerians.

Speaking on Monday in Abuja during a national conference themed ‘Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy: Pathways to Good Governance and Political Integrity,’ Obi emphasized that Nigeria is failing its citizens, breeding poverty daily, and subjecting people to unnecessary hardship.

The conference was organized by a coalition of civic organizations, including the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD), Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), Westminster for Democracy (WfD), Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa (PAACA), and the National Peace Committee.

Addressing journalists on the sidelines of the event, Obi said discussions about Nigeria’s future must take precedence over power-sharing arrangements. “For me, what matters is discussing Nigeria. If we’re talking about coalitions, let’s center them on the country’s future,” he remarked.

He criticized the fixation on power-grabbing, adding, “I am not interested in forming any coalition solely for the purpose of taking power. The priority should be addressing Nigeria’s challenges—securing lives, improving education, and ensuring the common man’s welfare.”

Obi also called for an end to the monetization of politics, which he described as a root cause of corruption. He argued, “When politics is monetized, it promotes the theft of public funds. Politicians who misuse stolen resources to win elections gain immunity from prosecution, perpetuating bad governance. This cycle must stop to safeguard the country’s future.”

Obi’s remarks underscore his advocacy for ethical governance and a people-first approach to leadership in Nigeria.