Former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has clarified that former President Goodluck Jonathan has not endorsed his potential bid for the 2027 presidential election.
Obi made the clarification during a recent interview, explaining that his meeting with Jonathan was part of ongoing political consultations and should not be interpreted as a formal endorsement.
According to Obi, the visit was one of several engagements with key national figures as he continues consultations ahead of the 2027 general elections. He stressed that while the discussions were cordial and constructive, no official backing had been secured.
“We are not talking about an endorsement yet,” Obi said. “When I become a candidate, I’ll come back for that.”
Providing further insight into the closed-door meeting, Obi’s former campaign spokesman, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, described the engagement as part of a broader outreach strategy aimed at rallying support from influential leaders across the country.
Tanko said the visit was intended to appeal to national leaders to support Obi’s potential candidacy, noting that many Nigerian youths see him as their preferred choice for leadership.
He added that discussions also touched on the need for greater representation for the South-East region, particularly in the context of post-Civil War political inclusion.
Reflecting on Obi’s tenure during Jonathan’s administration, Tanko stated that the former Anambra governor made notable contributions at the time and expressed hope that Jonathan would eventually support his ambition.
Similarly, Obi’s media spokesman, Ibrahim Umar, said the meeting underscored the importance of consulting experienced leaders who have previously served the country. He quoted Obi as acknowledging Jonathan’s role in national development and the value of his counsel.
Obi further revealed that Jonathan used the opportunity to stress the importance of credible, free, and fair elections in 2027, while cautioning against the dangers of a one-party system.
According to Obi, the former President expressed goodwill for the nation and emphasised the need for a transparent democratic process.
The meeting forms part of Obi’s wider political consultations, which have reportedly included engagements with former Presidents such as Olusegun Obasanjo and Ibrahim Babangida as he seeks to build a broad-based coalition.
The development comes amid renewed opposition realignments ahead of 2027, including a recent strategy summit in Ibadan, Oyo State, where political stakeholders discussed pathways to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
There is also growing speculation about a possible alliance between Obi and former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, both of whom are influential figures within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
While political permutations continue to unfold, Obi maintains that his current engagements remain consultative, insisting that any formal endorsement discussions will take place only after he officially declares his candidacy.