APC South‑East chieftain Dr George Agbakahi has rejected claims by former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi that there is a plot to prevent him from contesting the 2027 presidential election.
No Evidence of Government Interference
In a statement issued to journalists in Abuja, Agbakahi said allegations of executive interference in the electoral process must be backed by credible and verifiable evidence. He stressed that, to date, no publicly available proof links the Federal Government or the Presidency to any scheme aimed at barring a qualified opposition figure from the 2027 race.
Legal Matters Already Before the Courts
The APC chieftain pointed out that the legal challenges surrounding the registration status of the Nigeria Democratic Congress are presently before the courts. He noted that these issues stem from disputes between political parties, not from actions initiated by the Federal Government.
Constitutional Safeguards and Institutional Independence
Agbakahi reminded stakeholders that Nigeria’s constitution guarantees judicial independence and provides legal avenues for dissatisfied parties to seek redress. He added that the Independent National Electoral Commission is constitutionally empowered to regulate political parties and conduct elections without external interference.
Call for Political Maturity
He urged political aspirants to demonstrate strategic foresight, institutional preparedness, and organisational competence. According to Agbakahi, Obi’s allegations attempt to frame routine legal and regulatory scrutiny as a coordinated campaign against him.
Emphasising that elections are won through organisation, voter mobilisation, persuasion, and coalition‑building—not conspiracy theories—he cited President Bola Tinubu as an example of a leader who built a strong national structure through years of coalition‑building and party organisation.
Way Forward
Agbakahi concluded by urging all political actors to resolve disputes through the courts, address organisational weaknesses via reforms, and contest elections on the basis of policies and ideas. He affirmed that the 2027 presidential election remains open to every qualified candidate who satisfies constitutional and legal requirements.
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