Lagos APC Tells Peter Obi: 2027 Election Won’t Be Like 2023

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has cautioned Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), that his popularity ahead of the 2027 general elections could decline without consistent political principles, clear policy positions and a strong nationwide organisational structure.

The party’s Lagos spokesman, Seye Oladejo, made the remarks on Monday in a statement titled “2027: Peter Obi and the Expiration Date of Political Momentum.”

Oladejo acknowledged that Obi’s 2023 presidential campaign capitalised on widespread public dissatisfaction, youth participation and strong social media engagement. However, he argued that the enthusiasm generated during an election campaign does not automatically translate into sustained political influence or electoral success.

According to him, Obi risks overestimating the lasting impact of the political momentum he built in 2023 if it is not supported by consistent policies and effective grassroots mobilisation.

“Political capital, once accumulated, can depreciate when it is not reinforced by consistency, credible policies and sustained organisational development,” Oladejo said.

He maintained that the visibility Obi enjoyed on social media and the large crowds associated with his campaign were insufficient substitutes for a well-established political structure capable of mobilising voters across the country.

The APC spokesman also argued that the political circumstances that shaped the 2023 elections may not necessarily be repeated in 2027, noting that changes in public sentiment and the emergence of new political dynamics could influence voters’ decisions.

“No two elections are the same. The 2023 phenomenon drew strength from a particular combination of public frustration and novelty. There is no guarantee these factors will reproduce in 2027,” he said.

Oladejo further questioned Obi’s movement between political parties, citing his previous affiliations with the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP), as well as his subsequent political realignments ahead of the next election.

He argued that frequent changes in party affiliation could raise questions about political ideology and long-term commitment to particular principles.

“Changing political parties is not inherently objectionable. The concern arises when repeated movement begins to create the impression that political platforms are interchangeable vehicles for personal ambition rather than institutions anchored in enduring principles,” he stated.

The APC spokesman also challenged Obi to provide clearer explanations of his policy proposals, particularly on inflation, unemployment, public debt and energy challenges.

He argued that presidential candidates must go beyond presenting broad promises by explaining how their proposed policies would be implemented, the resources required and the potential trade-offs involved.

Oladejo also criticised Obi’s recurring phrase, “go and verify,” arguing that some of the claims associated with the expression had faced scrutiny over their accuracy.

“Verification is essential. The problem is that in numerous instances, the very invitation to verify has prompted scrutiny that has challenged the figures and assertions advanced,” he said.

On the Obidient movement, which gained prominence during Obi’s 2023 campaign, Oladejo argued that its supporters would need to develop a more structured political platform if they intend to sustain their influence beyond the next election cycle.

He said the movement would have to progress from protest-driven mobilisation to policy development and organised grassroots engagement to establish itself as a lasting national political force.

According to him, the 2027 presidential election will depend less on candidates’ ability to recreate previous campaign excitement and more on their capacity to demonstrate competence, credibility, organisational strength and a clear vision for the country.

Oladejo acknowledged that electoral victories must be earned through performance and public confidence. However, he maintained that past popularity should not be regarded as a guarantee of future success or a reason for the ruling party to relinquish its electoral advantage.

“Momentum is an opportunity, not a permanent political asset,” he added.