2027: What Peter Obi discussed with Jonathan behind closed doors

By Lawrence Agbo

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has revealed details of his closed-door meeting with former President Goodluck Jonathan, saying their discussions centred on Nigeria’s future ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Obi, who visited Jonathan’s residence on Monday alongside a delegation of prominent South-East leaders, described the meeting as productive and focused on key national concerns.

In a post on X after the visit, Obi said the talks were frank and thoughtful, with emphasis on unity, security, stability, productivity and inclusive governance.

“Our discussions were frank, thoughtful, and anchored on the urgent need to reposition Nigeria on the path of unity, security, stability, productivity, and inclusive governance.”

According to him, the meeting was part of broader consultations with key stakeholders as political realignments ahead of 2027 continue to gather momentum.

“At a time when our nation continues to grapple with economic hardship, rising insecurity and deepening social divisions, it has become imperative that leaders across regions come together to reflect, consult and act in the overall interest of the Nigerian people,” he said.

Obi stressed that Nigeria needs leadership driven by competence, character, capacity and compassion rather than personal ambition.

“Nigeria today requires leadership that is guided not by personal ambition, but by competence, character, capacity, and compassion. Governance is not about sharing what is left, but about creating what is needed,” he said.

He also argued that governance should focus on creating opportunities rather than merely sharing limited resources, while calling for a shift from a consumption-driven economy to a production-based model.

Looking ahead, Peter Obi described the 2027 elections as a defining opportunity to reset Nigeria’s direction, saying the process must focus on improving education, supporting entrepreneurs and ensuring a secure and functional nation for citizens.

“The 2027 elections must not just be seen as another political exercise, but as a critical opportunity to reset the trajectory of our country.

“It must be about the Nigerian child who deserves quality education, the struggling entrepreneur who needs a conducive environment to thrive, and the millions of citizens who simply desire a secure and functional nation,” he said.

He was accompanied to the meeting by Igbo elders, senators of the African Democratic Congress from the South-East and other political associates.