By Tom Zaneni, Abuja
Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has debunked reports in some section of the media that he proposed to be vice-president to anyone in 2027 poll in a recent interview he granted News Central TV.
Obi said that he did not at any time during the interview mention that he would be vice-president to any presidential hopeful, stressing that he was surprised by the twisting of his position and comments by propagandists.
He offered the clarification in a series of posts on his official X handle on Saturday, while reacting to what he termed a distortion of the narrative by fifth columnists.
The former governor of Anambra State said he was not desperate to become president, but was determined to ensure that Nigeria was working.
He said he was ready to also partner with those who desired that the country must work, provided they were not driven by the motivation for state capture.
He said he would not want to be among those who are fixated on 2027 while citizens are suffering from hunger, misery and other socio-economic challenges.
Obi said he was committed to the LP and that if anyone wants collaboration or to join forces, such persons must make their intentions very clear.
He said, “I have been inundated with calls and concerns regarding the interview I granted to News Central TV.
“In that interview, I took the opportunity it provided to explain my position in detail. However, some fifth columnists have resorted to propaganda, deliberately distorting the narrative.
“Let me reiterate clearly what I said, which is on record. I do not want to be one of those preoccupied with 2027 while Nigerians are suffering from hunger, poverty, insecurity, and other pressing challenges.
“I explicitly stated my openness to working with others, provided their intentions were not centred on state capture. I emphasized my commitment to partnering with those who share my vision for advancing Nigeria’s progress.
“I also made it clear that I remain committed to the Labour Party, and if anyone wishes to negotiate or join forces, they must disclose their true intentions.
“As I have always maintained, I am not desperate to become president, but I am determined to see Nigeria work.
“Likewise, I am not desperate for any position at all as I believe I can make contributions as I am already doing without occupying any.
“When 2027 arrives, if I decide to run for any office, it will not be with those whose sole aim is state capture or merely winning an election.
“I want them to explain how we will ensure that no child is left behind and how we will bring millions of out-of-school children back into classrooms, ensure healthy living and pull people out of poverty.
“My statement was unequivocal, and I am genuinely surprised by the misrepresentation of my words. For the avoidance of doubts, I never stated at any time that I would be vice president to anyone and it’s unequivocal.
“I have consistently maintained that I am open to working with those committed to building a new Nigeria.
“My commitment to Nigeria remains steadfast, and I even believe it is possible to contribute to its progress without occupying any office as I am already doing.”
