Aisha Yesufu Vows to Work Against 2027 Ticket if Peter Obi Is Named Running Mate
Prominent socio-political activist Aisha Yesufu has declared that she will actively oppose any 2027
presidential election ticket in which Peter Obi is presented as a vice-presidential candidate rather than a
presidential flagbearer.
Yesufu, a well-known activist and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), made her
comments in a video circulating on social media on Monday, as political realignments continue ahead of
the 2027 general election.
She emphasised that Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate in 2023, should lead any viable
opposition ticket and not be relegated to a secondary role.
“I’m giving you people my word. If Peter Obi emerges as a running mate to anyone, I will work against
that ticket,” Yesufu said in the video. “In my little capacity, I will work against them even if I don’t
support any other candidate. Why are we always asking the best to be the second?”
Her remarks reflect growing debate within opposition circles about strategies and alignments for 2027,
particularly within the coalition that adopted the ADC as its platform to challenge the ruling All
Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government.
Obi has been viewed by many supporters as a leading presidential contender, and there has been
speculation about possible running mate arrangements with other aspirants.
Yesufu argued that Obi should not accept a deputy position because she believes he is among the most
credible figures in the opposition and deserves to lead.
She criticised what she described as a recurring pattern in Nigerian politics where strong candidates are
positioned as deputies rather than front-line leaders.
While Yesufu’s comments have garnered attention and debate on social media and among political
commentators, there has been no official confirmation of Obi’s role on any ticket for the 2027 elections.
Obi, who later aligned with the ADC following coalition talks, remains one of several names being
discussed by political observers as the opposition strategises for the next election cycle.
The activist’s stance adds a new dimension to conversations about candidate selection and political
strategy within the opposition ahead of 2027, as different factions negotiate alliances and potential
tickets.
By Oyinkansola Shittu.
