PDP Chieftain Declares Peter Obi the “Only Authentic Presidential Candidate” for 2027 as Labour Party Leaders Decry Worsening Hardship
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The deepening economic hardship in Nigeria and the plight of its workers took center stage on Friday at a special May Day talk show organized in Abuja by members of the Obidient Movement, powered by the Cyrus Group and the Free Nigeria Foundation. Held at Merit House, Maitama, the well-attended event featured prominent political figures, activists, and cultural icons who voiced concern over the nation’s trajectory while rallying support for systemic change.
One of the event’s high points was the impassioned address by Dr. Segun Sowunmi, a frontline chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In a bold declaration that drew applause from the audience, Sowunmi stated that the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, remains the “only authentic presidential candidate” for the 2027 elections.
“You know I am of the PDP, but the future of Nigeria is in Peter Obi,” Sowunmi proclaimed. “He is the only authentic candidate; all others are fake. He is restless to see Nigeria work, always searching for answers to our problems, unlike others who are waiting for what they are not prepared for.”
Criticizing what he described as a political pattern of alternating leadership between the North and South West while marginalizing the South East, Sowunmi argued that the country has a rare opportunity in Obi, whom he described as “the future.”
He traced Obi’s entry into politics to a genuine desire to transform the nation and urged the Obidient Movement and the Labour Party to take inspiration from Brazil’s Labour Party, advocating for a proactive approach to leading the necessary change.
Also addressing the gathering was Senator Nenadi Usman, Acting National Chairman of the Labour Party, who reiterated the party’s commitment to workers across all sectors—from construction sites to hospitals and security services.
Senator Usman outlined five key commitments of the Labour Party aimed at restoring the dignity of Nigerian workers: living wages, labor rights, non-negotiable health and housing programs for workers, and strict enforcement of labor laws.
“Workers cannot be the creators of wealth and yet live in penury,” she asserted. “Everything about the labor struggle is for the welfare of the people. A government may clap for itself for supposed achievements, but if these are not reflected in the people’s welfare, it is not governance. They may lock everyone up, but they cannot lock God. Stay the course; don’t sell your birthright—for the sake of tomorrow’s children.”
Renowned poet Dike Chukwumerije added his voice, urging Nigerians to persevere in the quest for change, even if the journey spans generations. “We must be ready for the inevitable change, not just for ourselves, but for our children and our children’s children,” he declared.
FCT Senator Ireti Kingibe also addressed the audience with a fiery charge to Nigerian youths and the Obidient Movement, criticizing what she described as their passivity amid Nigeria’s challenges. “You are too quiet in this country! We are going down in this country!” Kingibe exclaimed, urging young Nigerians to be more proactive in shaping the nation’s future.
A lively question-and-answer session followed, with Senator Kingibe fielding pointed questions from constituents. Despite the tough queries, she responded candidly, addressing various concerns raised by the audience.
Dr. Moses Paul, the coordinator of the talk show and Director of the Free Nigeria Foundation, delivered a stirring warning to political actors ahead of the 2027 elections. Declaring a “never again” mantra, Dr. Paul cautioned against any attempt to undermine the electoral process. He directed a pointed message to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, urging him to cease intimidating Abuja residents regarding elections. “The voters know where they are and where they are going,” he emphasized.
The event was graced by notable personalities, including iconic gospel musician Bongos Ikwue, alongside elders and veteran labor activists, contributing to what participants described as a highly successful and inspiring gathering.
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