Obi Launches 2027 Campaign, Challenges Rivals to Defend Their Records

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has formally kicked off his campaign for the 2027 presidential election, challenging fellow candidates to present their records, credentials and policy proposals before Nigerians for scrutiny.

Obi made the call on Friday in Onitsha, Anambra State, during a press conference marking the commencement of campaigns for the presidential and National Assembly elections.

He urged presidential candidates not to hide behind political surrogates or the influence of their offices, insisting that Nigerians deserve to hear directly from those seeking their mandate.

Obi Demands Accountability From Candidates

The former Anambra State governor said every candidate seeking the presidency should have the courage to answer questions from voters and defend their previous records.

He argued that the 2027 campaign should go beyond rallies, slogans and political propaganda, with Nigerians carefully examining the competence, character, capacity and policy ideas of those seeking to govern them.

Obi's campaign message focuses on moving Nigeria from consumption to production, reducing the cost of governance, improving security, strengthening education and healthcare, and creating greater economic opportunities for young Nigerians.

Calls for Issue-Based Campaign

Obi's media office has also urged voters to use the 150-day campaign period to compare the records and proposals of all presidential candidates rather than making decisions based solely on political slogans or propaganda.

According to the campaign, the election should be about determining the kind of country Nigerians want to build and identifying the candidate with the capacity to deliver it.

The 2027 presidential campaign officially began on August 19, 2026, ahead of the January 16, 2027 election.

Obi's challenge comes as President Bola Tinubu seeks re-election and other opposition candidates, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, intensify their campaigns.

With political activities now officially underway, the demand for candidates to defend their records is expected to become a major theme of the 2027 presidential contest.