Ex-lawmaker Urges Obi To Back Tinubu’s Re-Election

A former Lagos lawmaker, Mr Jude Idimogu, has advised Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, to abandon his alliance with the ADC.

He urged Obi to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, stating that: “it is clear ADC cannot unseat Tinubu”.

Idimogu, Deputy Leader of Ndigbo in Lagos APC, gave the advice during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Thursday.

He said aligning with Tinubu would offer Obi a better path to achieve his political ambitions, noting the President rewards loyalty and support.

According to him, Tinubu values those who stand by him, adding such an alliance could benefit Obi in the long term.

“Obi should reconsider his alliance with ADC and work with President Tinubu. President Tinubu’s re-election is almost a done deal.

“It is not possible to remove Tinubu in the current reality. Obi should meet Tinubu and reach a future agreement.

“Politics is about calculated alliances. ADC cannot outsmart Tinubu to win. The President appreciates loyalty and rewards supporters,” Idimogu said.

He maintained that defeating Tinubu in 2027 would be extremely difficult for Obi, regardless of his political platform.

Idimogu urged Obi to prioritise strategic decisions over personal ambition, stressing collaboration with the incumbent could open future opportunities.

He also called on Southern leaders to unite behind Tinubu’s second-term bid, warning that multiple candidates could split votes and weaken the region.

He noted zoning and political balance was vital to national stability, urging the South to consolidate power by supporting Tinubu.

“The South must remain united. Supporting Tinubu will strengthen the region’s position and ensure continuity and stability,” he said.

He argued Obi’s involvement in opposition coalition politics, including his reported ADC alignment, might not deliver electoral success.

According to Idimogu, Obi should align with Tinubu to secure future political relevance rather than pursue a difficult electoral path.

While acknowledging Obi’s right to contest, he advised Igbo leaders to consider long-term regional benefits and support Tinubu.

He added that while opposition is vital in democracy, unity among Southern leaders should take precedence before the 2027 elections.

Idimogu expressed confidence that broad support for Tinubu across regions would secure victory and promote national cohesion.

NAN reports that Obi and other opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, have adopted ADC to challenge Tinubu in 2027. (NAN)