2027: Tinubu Not in Charge, I’ll Take Full Control – Obi

The 2027 presidential campaign took a more combative turn on Thursday as presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not fully in charge of the country.

Obi, who is seeking to unseat Tinubu in the February 20, 2027 presidential election, made the assertion during an interview with Arise Television.

The former Anambra State governor promised Nigerians that, if elected president, he would personally take responsibility for the affairs of government and maintain direct communication with citizens.

According to him, Nigerians would not have to rely on intermediaries or presidential proxies to know the position of his administration on critical national issues.

“Something I believe: Tinubu is not in charge. I will be in charge. No one will speak for Peter. I will be answerable to the people,” Obi said.

The declaration represents a direct challenge to the leadership style of the Tinubu administration, coming at a time when opposition parties are intensifying efforts to build a formidable coalition ahead of the 2027 election.

Obi has increasingly presented himself as a candidate who would operate a more direct, accountable and citizen-focused presidency if elected.

The NDC presidential candidate has also used recent media engagements to outline his positions on governance, electoral reform, national security and economic management, while criticising aspects of the current administration.

His latest declaration is expected to further sharpen the emerging contest between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition forces as the country moves closer to the 2027 presidential poll.

With the campaign season expected to become increasingly competitive, the ability of the leading contenders to convince voters that they can provide decisive leadership and remain accountable to Nigerians is likely to be a major issue in the election.