Prophet Joshua Iginla of the Champion Royal Assembly has stated that Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State, is the only candidate who can give President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) a serious challenge in the 2027 presidential election. Speaking during a live Sunday service, Iginla emphasized that Obi’s chances of success depend heavily on his choice of running mate, urging him to select a northerner to balance the ticket. He warned that if Obi chooses any other candidate as his deputy, he risks losing his political relevance and weakening his campaign.
Iginla, a prominent religious figure and political commentator, made his remarks while addressing his congregation. He stressed that a strong opposition must be built on strategic alliances, particularly across Nigeria’s diverse regions. “This is my political opinion,” he said. “If we really want to give the opposition party a strong fight, put Peter Obi there, let him be deputized by any Northerner and then we will have a fight.” His words reflect growing speculation about Obi’s potential presidential bid and the importance of regional representation in Nigeria’s political landscape.
He further cautioned Obi against making hasty decisions, saying, “Peter Obi, don’t, if you vice anybody, you have lost your political relevance. It’s better you go zero and leave them to do their things. The issue is so simple, you need patience if you want to go there.” This advice underscores the delicate balance between ambition and strategy in Nigerian politics, where regional dynamics often determine electoral outcomes.
Reports from DAILY POST indicate that Obi is currently in discussions with former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, a prominent figure from the North, for a possible political alliance. Supporters of the potential Obi/Kwankwaso ticket see it as a strategic move to unite the South-East and North, creating a broad-based coalition capable of challenging the APC. Kwankwaso, who previously ran as a presidential candidate under the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), brings significant political experience and influence in the North.
The 2027 election is expected to be one of the most competitive in Nigeria’s history, with several major parties fielding candidates. The African Democratic Congress (ADC), of which Obi is a top contender for the presidential ticket, is positioning itself as a credible alternative to the APC and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). As political conversations intensify, Iginla’s comments add to the growing discourse on coalition-building and the need for inclusive leadership.
With less than three years until the election, the strategic choices of key figures like Obi will shape the direction of Nigeria’s political future. The Obi/Kwankwaso alignment, if confirmed, could redefine the opposition’s strength and set the stage for a more balanced and competitive race in 2027.
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