PROFESSOR of political economy, Pat Utomi, says his support for Peter Obi’s 2027 presidential bid will end if the former Anambra governor agrees to become the running mate of another presidential candidate.
Utomi, a prominent supporter of Obi’s presidential ambition, said he backs him specifically for the presidency and would not support a move that would see him contest as a vice-presidential candidate.
In a statement shared on X, Utomi said he was restating his position as political activities ahead of the 2027 general election gather pace.
According to him, his support for Obi is based on the former governor’s pursuit of the presidency.
“I have said this before, and I believe it is important to remind Nigerians of my position as we approach 2027. Peter Obi has my support for the presidency,” he said.
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Utomi, however, drew a clear line between supporting Obi for president and backing him as a running mate.
“But my position is clear, I am not supporting the idea of Peter Obi becoming somebody else’s vice president,” he said.
“The day Peter Obi accepts a vice presidential position, I will walk away from his corner. I have said this plainly, and I stand by it.”
The political economist said his position was driven by his views on the kind of leadership Nigeria needs rather than personal considerations.
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Utomi also called for a national debate on the age of politicians seeking executive office.
He proposed that presidential and governorship candidates should be no older than 70 years, arguing that the country needs leadership focused on the future.
“The Nigerian presidency should not become a retirement home for politicians,” he said.
“I believe there should be a serious national conversation about limiting presidential and gubernatorial candidates to those aged 70 or below.
“Nigeria needs leadership that is focused on the future, not simply another cycle of political succession.
“These are principles I have stated publicly, and Nigerians should judge them for themselves.”
Obi was the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election. He is now the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 election.
