Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), has dismissed efforts by opposition leaders to form a coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections, criticizing such moves as “power-grabbing initiatives” that lack genuine national interest.

Speaking on Monday at a two-day national conference in Abuja themed “Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy: Pathway to Good Governance and Political Integrity,” Obi expressed skepticism about past coalitions, describing them as opportunistic and detrimental to the nation’s progress.

“I am not interested in a coalition for power grabbing,” Obi stated. “It is disheartening that political leaders abandon the country to collapse while desperately seeking political power.”

When asked about the proposed coalition of opposition forces, Obi reaffirmed his commitment to Nigeria’s future, emphasizing the need for solutions over alliances. “What is important to me is the future of this country. We have abandoned the nation, and all we talk about is power grabbing,” he said.

The former governor of Anambra State highlighted his focus on addressing critical issues affecting Nigerians, including security and education, rather than engaging in political power struggles. “It’s about securing Nigeria, prioritizing the common people, and improving education. These are the most important issues facing Nigeria today,” Obi noted.

He also raised concerns about the declining state of democracy in the country, emphasizing its far-reaching effects on citizens’ lives. “The collapse of democracy affects the citizens, their daily living, and the future of their children. Democracy in Nigeria isn’t working, and we all must get involved to fix it,” he concluded.

Obi’s comments have sparked debates about the role of coalitions in Nigeria’s political landscape and the need for more issue-focused governance strategies.