Renowned cleric and founder of Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC), Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, has expressed skepticism over the national viability of Peter Obi’s presidential ambition, citing limited political penetration in Northern Nigeria as a major hurdle.
Speaking during a recent broadcast, Ashimolowo argued that Nigeria’s entrenched regional and voting dynamics remain largely intact, making it difficult for candidates without broad geographic acceptance to secure nationwide victory. He noted that under current political realities, Obi may struggle to gain significant electoral support across several key northern states.
While acknowledging Obi’s credentials and performance as a former governor, the cleric maintained that competence and integrity alone are insufficient to guarantee electoral success at the federal level. According to him, presidential elections in Nigeria require not just credibility, but expansive political structures and cross-regional appeal.
Peter Obi, who contested the 2023 presidential election on the platform of the Labour Party, finished behind President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Despite the outcome, Obi’s campaign galvanized a strong youth and urban support base, giving rise to the widely recognised “Obidient” movement.
As political attention gradually shifts toward the 2027 general election, Obi continues to remain active in national discourse, fueling speculation about a possible second bid. However, uncertainty surrounds the platform he may adopt. He has been linked to a growing opposition coalition involving prominent political figures, including Atiku Abubakar, which is reportedly coalescing around the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Although Atiku has formally aligned with the ADC, Obi has yet to declare his membership, prompting discussions about unresolved strategic differences within the coalition. Party officials have acknowledged that managing the ambitions of multiple high-profile aspirants presents a complex challenge.
ADC representatives have clarified that the party is currently focused on expanding its nationwide presence and strengthening internal structures, rather than engaging in early debates over presidential tickets. They insist that candidate selection discussions will only begin once foundational party goals are achieved.
Meanwhile, Obi has previously drawn attention to unresolved issues within the opposition alliance, including zoning arrangements and leadership rotation, suggesting that key decisions remain outstanding.
As opposition forces continue internal consultations ahead of 2027, analysts say the central question remains whether Peter Obi can overcome regional limitations and coalition complexities to mount a truly competitive national campaign.
