2027 Showdown: Why Obi’s Camp Fears No One Not Even Jonathan — Says Senator Umeh

As speculations swirl that former President Goodluck Jonathan may re-enter the presidential race in 2027, a key ally of Peter Obi has declared that the Labour Party candidate’s supporters remain completely unshaken and are even multiplying.

Senator Victor Umeh, a chieftain of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), dismissed suggestions that Jonathan’s rumoured ambition could destabilize Obi’s political base.

In an interview on Trust TV’s Daily Politics programme, Umeh insisted that Obi’s movement has only grown stronger since the 2023 election.

“We’re not concerned. Why should we be scared? We cannot be scared,” Umeh said. “Every individual has his own base and followers. What Obi has now is sufficient to make the impact again in 2027 and win the election.”

Umeh revealed that Obi had consulted Jonathan several times about his political plans and at no point did the former President indicate he was planning to run.

Still, Umeh acknowledged Jonathan’s constitutional right to contest, while maintaining that his entry would not diminish Obi’s support.

“His supporters are not diminishing. They are multiplying,” Umeh stressed.

The senator also defended Obi’s pledge to serve only one term if elected in 2027, arguing that four years is enough for a focused leader to reset Nigeria’s trajectory. “Nigerians today are eager to see a government that walks its talk,” he added.

Describing Obi as “the most prudent and fiscally disciplined person” he has met in politics, Umeh cited the former governor’s record in Anambra State as proof of his capacity to lead with accountability and purpose.