Nigeria: ‘I might not be alive to contest 2027 elections’ — Peter Obi
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Nigeria
ABUJA — Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress for the 2027 general elections, has raised concerns over his personal safety and alleged that his businesses are being deliberately frustrated by government actions.
Speaking during an interview on _With Chude_, hosted by media personality Chude Jideonwo and shared on X on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, Obi said the environment for opposition figures in Nigeria has become increasingly hostile.
When asked directly if he would be on the ballot in 2027, Obi responded:
“Not even a candidate. I might not even be alive. I’m telling you. Every single thing I do for a living, this government is frustrating it. Deliberately so. Everything. So, there is even a possibility, if they have the opportunity, I will not be alive.”
*“My daily life is being obstructed”*
The former Anambra State governor was careful not to make a formal accusation, but he insisted that the difficulties he faces are not random.
According to him, while there is no open confrontation, the pattern of disruption is clear. He described it as targeted obstruction affecting his personal and business activities.
“While authorities avoid direct confrontation, their hand is visible in the routine hurdles,” Obi said. He added that he has also been denied entitlements and privileges that should ordinarily be accorded to a former governor.
To illustrate his claims, Obi recounted a recent experience at an airport. He said officials locked his vehicle while leaving other parked cars untouched.
Beyond official encounters, Obi said the atmosphere of fear has extended to his personal relationships. He alleged that some associates now avoid being seen with him in public.
“I have people send me invitations and say, ‘My son, my daughter is wedding, but please don’t come,’” he said. “They are afraid of retribution.”
Obi argued that he is not the only target. He claimed there is a broader pattern of pressure on opposition voices across the country.
“They are attacking everybody who is in opposition personally,” he stated. For him, the issue goes beyond politics and touches on democratic space and freedom of association.
He did not name specific individuals or agencies, but said the cumulative effect is to make it difficult for opposition leaders to function freely.
Obi emerged as a major political force in the 2023 presidential election under the Labour Party, where he mobilized significant youth support. He has since aligned with the Nigeria Democratic Congress ahead of 2027.
His remarks come at a time when political parties are beginning early preparations for the next general elections. Issues of political space, security, and the treatment of opposition figures are expected to dominate public discourse in the coming months.
Political analysts note that allegations of intimidation are common in election cycles, but Obi’s direct comments about his safety have drawn wide attention online. The interview clip quickly trended on X, with supporters expressing concern and critics questioning the claims.
Civil society groups have urged authorities to ensure that all political actors, regardless of party, are allowed to operate without fear. They also called for investigations into any credible allegations of harassment or obstruction.
The government has not issued an official response to Obi’s comments as of press time.
For his part, Obi said he remains committed to public service despite the challenges. He emphasized that his goal is to contribute to nation-building and to offer Nigerians an alternative in 2027.
“I am not saying this to gain sympathy,” he noted in the interview. “I am saying this because Nigerians deserve to know what the environment looks like for those who want to offer a different option.”
Whether Obi will ultimately contest in 2027 remains to be seen. But his warning has added a new layer to the conversation about democracy, dissent, and political competition in Nigeria.
