…alleges plot to stop him

By Gift ChapiOdekina, Abuja

A support group backing the 2027 presidential ambition of Peter Obi has called on him to ensure he emerges on the ballot, alleging that there are moves by the ruling party to prevent his participation in the next general election.

The National Convener of Obi on the Ballot Mandate, Comrade Emmanuel  Amadi, made the call during an interview with journalists in Imo.

Amadi, who spoke on behalf of the group’s 95 Local Government Area coordinators and 1,414 ward coordinators across the 5 South Eastern States , said the resolution followed a series of congresses held in all the 95 LGAs in Enugu, Ebonyi, Abia, Imo and Anambra, which began in Aku, Igbo Etiti Local Government Area of Enugu State and ended in Omoba, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of Abia State on March 27, 2026.

He urged Obi to take proactive steps to secure a platform to contest the election, advising that he should consider leaving the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of its primaries if he is uncertain of getting the party’s ticket.

According to him, recent amendments to the Electoral Act may pose a challenge to Obi’s chances, alleging that such changes are targeted at limiting his participation.

Amadi further argued that Obi’s political strength lies with the masses rather than elite structures, insisting that party popularity or structure should not be a determining factor in his choice of platform.

He also criticized the ruling party, claiming that Nigerians, particularly the “common man,” have faced worsening economic hardship in recent years and cannot support the current administration in the next election cycle.

The group maintained that Obi represents the hope of ordinary Nigerians struggling with rising cost of living and insecurity, stressing that his candidacy in 2027 would be pivotal to addressing the country’s challenges.

Amadi emphatically called on Obi to ensure he is on the 2027 ballot. He also called on Nigerians to remain hopeful and actively participate in the democratic process, urging supporters to rally behind Obi regardless of the political party that eventually offers him a ticket.

“Whichever party gives him the ticket will have our full support,” he said.