The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Mr Peter Obi, has debunked the report that he said he was ready to serve as vice president to anyone in 2027.
Obi said in a series of posts on his X yesterday that some of the comments he made in an interview with News Central TV were misconstrued.
He said his statement during the interview was “unequivocal” adding that he was “genuinely surprised” by the misrepresentation of his words.
For the avoidance of doubts, he said he did not, at any time said he would be vice president to anyone “and it’s unequivocal.”
However, he said he was ready to partner with others provided their intentions were not centred on state capture, stressing that he would not be one of those preoccupied with 2027 while Nigerians are suffering from hunger, poverty, insecurity, and other pressing challenges.
He wrote: “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 emphasised 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. 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,” he added.
