Presidency or vice Presidency – the conflicting ambitions

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s fiery 2023 presidential candidate, clearly wants one thing, and that is to be Nigeria’s president in 2027. Yet, a bitter controversy has erupted around his role in the opposition coalition July 11, 2025.

According to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, the opposition figures backing Obi are not aligned with his presidential ambitions.

Instead, they allegedly want him to settle as the vice-presidential candidate.

This revelation was made public during an appearance on Arise Television’s Prime Time show on Thursday.

Onanuga’s blunt assertion has ignited debates across Nigeria’s political landscape, raising questions about loyalty, ambition, and the true intentions of the opposition coalition.

Opposition Coalition: United or Divided?

The opposition coalition, involving Peter Obi, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and other prominent politicians.

This has adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as their platform to challenge President Tinubu’s administration in 2027.

However, the coalition’s unity appears fragile.

Both Obi and Atiku have hinted at presidential runs in 2027, but Onanuga warns that their ambitions may clash.

The coalition’s internal power dynamics suggest a hidden agenda where Obi is expected to play second fiddle, despite his clear desire to lead the nation.

Onanuga’s Stark Warning to Peter Obi

Onanuga did not mince words.

He cautioned Obi against accepting a joint ticket with Atiku in 2027.

Arguing that Obi’s massive and passionate following from the 2023 elections would evaporate if he agrees to be Atiku’s running mate.

“If Peter Obi allies with Atiku in 2027, he will not get the blind followership he received in 2023.

It will not happen because he wants to be president and they want him to be Vice President,” Onanuga stated emphatically.

This warning exposes a deep rift within the opposition camp.

It also suggests that Obi’s supporters might feel betrayed if their candidate compromises his presidential ambition for a subordinate role.

Tinubu’s Grip on Power: A Foregone Conclusion?

Despite the opposition’s efforts, Onanuga confidently predicts that President Bola Tinubu’s All Progressives Congress (APC) will remain in power come 2027.

He dismisses the opposition’s “permutations” and “trying their luck” as futile attempts that lack real strategy or unity.

This claim is highly controversial. Many Nigerians, especially Obi’s supporters, see Tinubu’s administration as deeply flawed and ripe for change.

Yet, Onanuga’s statement reveals the ruling party’s confidence in its political machinery and influence.

The Real Question: Who Controls the Opposition?

This controversy highlights a critical question: who truly controls the opposition coalition?

Is Peter Obi a genuine leader with his own mandate, or is he being maneuvered into a secondary role by more established politicians like Atiku?

The answer matters greatly.

If Obi is sidelined, it could fracture the opposition and weaken their chances against the APC.

Conversely, if Obi insists on his presidential ambition, it might lead to a split that benefits the ruling party.

Personalizing the Political Drama

Peter Obi 2027 presidential ambition but for many Nigerians, this political tug-of-war is more than just a game of power.

It reflects the frustrations of voters who crave genuine leadership and change.

Peter Obi’s 2023 campaign energized millions with promises of reform and transparency.

Now, the fear is that political maneuvering will dilute that momentum.

The presidency is not just a title; it’s a symbol of hope for millions who want a better Nigeria.

If Obi’s ambition is compromised, it could feel like a betrayal to those who believed in his vision.

A Political Crossroad

The 2027 Nigerian presidential race is shaping up to be a battlefield of conflicting ambitions and political intrigue.

Peter Obi’s desire to lead clashes with the opposition’s apparent plan to sideline him.

Meanwhile, President Tinubu’s camp watches confidently, ready to maintain its hold on power.

As Nigerians watch this drama unfold, the question remains: will the opposition unite behind a clear vision, or will internal power struggles hand victory to the ruling party once again?

The stakes have never been higher, and the outcome will define Nigeria’s future.

Stay tuned to Wahalaupdate for more incisive political analysis and updates on Nigeria’s evolving democracy.