Peter Obi has indicated challenges within the proposed coalition with the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate for the 2023 general election cited unresolved issues. These include concerns over the zoning and rotation of key political offices.

Obi made these remarks during a recent YouTube interview with ‘Advocacy for Good Governance’. He strongly emphasised the need for clarity and broad consensus within any political alliance.

The former Anambra State governor also reaffirmed his commitment to the Labour Party. He stressed that any coalition must first resolve internal disagreements. Furthermore, it needs to establish a clear, common vision for Nigeria’s future.

Obi clearly stated, “Today, I am a member of the Labour Party. I subscribe to the ADC Coalition for the 2027 election.” He affirmed his belief in the coalition. However, he also called for clarity on its core principles. “I need to know the fundamentals we all agree to respect,” he explained. He questioned what the coalition would offer ordinary Nigerians. “We are still part of the political class,” he reminded. “So, we are not a bunch of new people.”

Obi acknowledged his respect for the coalition’s leaders. He specifically mentioned Chairman David Mark, noting his political acumen. “I believe he has the political sagacity to lead the party,” Obi said. He also praised other key figures, including “my own leader, Atiku.” Obi holds immense respect for Atiku and believes in his commitment to Nigeria’s welfare.

However, Obi highlighted the need for careful consideration. “There are still some fine lines that we need to respect,” he explained. He insisted on proper procedures. He called for discussions on the country’s future direction. “We are not new people,” Obi reiterated, “we are the same political class.” He concluded, “We must come with new ideas that Nigerians will trust.”

Obi stressed the importance of offering a genuine alternative. “We must come with new things, new perspectives,” he declared. This alternative, he noted, must possess “competence, character, capacity, commitment, and compassion.” These attributes are crucial, he explained, to effectively “drive this new vehicle” for Nigeria.

Obi cautioned against simply rejecting current leadership. “We can’t just say, ‘Oh, we don’t like what these people are doing. Let them go’,” he advised. He posed a critical question: “If they go, what is the alternative?” Obi drew a parallel to the 2015 elections. “We’ve done that in 2015: ‘Let this man just go,’ and he went,” he recalled. This emphasized the need for a clear plan.

“So, we now have to be clear,” Obi asserted. He pressed for answers on what Nigerians would gain. “What are we getting?” he asked. He also raised concerns about the trustworthiness of future leaders. “Can we trust those who are going to drive this vehicle?” he pondered. “Will they truly do what they’re saying?” He further questioned their consistency, asking, “Where have they said it before?”

“It all depends,” Obi remarked. He clarified his personal ambition. “I am not desperate to become the president of Nigeria,” he stated. Instead, his desperation lies “to see Nigeria work.” He expressed a desire to fully understand proposed offerings.

Obi then addressed current political dynamics. “Today, we have what we can call unsigned agreements,” he revealed. These agreements involve the presidency and office rotation. They often dictate which region a candidate should come from. “All these things need to be organised,” Obi insisted. Proper organisation is vital, he explained, “so you don’t create confusion for the future.”

“Today, it’s about the future,” Obi strongly emphasised. He urged all parties to prioritise long-term goals. “If we’re going to do anything, let’s look at the future,” he advised. He also cautioned against personal gain. “Let’s not look at what is going to benefit us,” he concluded.

“Even if it takes us one week to agree, we must do so,” Obi stated firmly. He expressed confidence in Nigeria’s potential for transformation. “If Nigerians want this country to change, we can make a change,” he declared. The duration of preparation is less critical, he added. “It doesn’t matter how.” He remained optimistic. “Even if we start three months, six months, eight months, or one year before the election,” he added, “we can still prepare.”