Key Points

• Babachir Lawal carefully weighs Peter Obi’s 2027 presidential election prospects.

• Northern political influence could significantly shift Nigeria’s presidential race dynamics.

• Calls grow louder for broader unity in Nigeria’s political leadership.

Babachir Lawal, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), has stated that he is not sure if he would back Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, if Obi were to run again in 2027.

A prominent political figure and vocal opponent of the current Nigerian government, Lawal had supported Obi in the previous election, establishing himself as a Christian voice from the north in the coalition led by the former governor of Anambra.

Now that the nation’s next presidential election is gradually approaching, his comments allude to changing political calculations.

Babachir Lawal assesses Peter Obi’s chances for 2027

In a media interview, Lawal stated that the political environment, the field of candidates, and his assessment of Obi’s capacity to forge a more robust and expansive coalition would all influence his choice.

He said, “Politics is dynamic.” “What I stated in 2023 was relevant at the time. The realities of 2027 will be different.

While Obi’s candidacy inspired young voters last year, the former SGF hinted that it might be more difficult to duplicate that momentum in the upcoming cycle if he doesn’t do much outreach outside of his core base.

He also made a suggestion that other candidates might surface to challenge the dominance of the opposition and ruling parties.

Concerns about national unity and political alliances

Lawal’s indecisiveness highlights the increasing hesitancy among well-known politicians who backed Obi’s 2023 campaign.

Deeper worries about Nigeria’s growing political and ethnic divisions are also reflected in his remarks. He declared, “Nigeria needs a leader who can bring all regions, faiths, and ethnicities together.”

According to a report by Vanguard news, he cautioned against a limited campaign strategy but refrained from openly criticizing Obi.

His stance, according to analysts, may have an impact on some northern blocs that supported Obi last year, especially Middle Eastern Christian communities.

Northern political clout in the 2027 contest

Regional endorsements are probably going to be crucial as 2027 draws near.

Lawal, who was ousted from office in 2017 after serving under President Muhammadu Buhari, is still well-liked in northern political circles. Election dynamics may change if he supports Obi, another opposition candidate, or even a member of the ruling party.

Lawal says he will keep his options open for the time being. He declared, “I’m keeping a careful eye on the political landscape.” “I’ll base my decision on what’s best for the nation when the time comes.”