Flashback: Aisha Yesufu Declares Opposition to Any 2027 Ticket Where Peter Obi Is Vice Presidential Candidate
Prominent Nigerian activist and co-founder of the #BringBackOurGirls movement, Aisha Yesufu, has voiced strong opposition to any political arrangement that would see Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, accept a vice presidential position in the 2027 elections.
In a widely circulated video from September 2024, Yesufu made her stance clear, stating emphatically that she would not support such a ticket. “If Peter Obi is running with anyone as the Vice President, I, Aisha Yesufu, in my little capacity, I will work against that ticket,” she said. She further questioned why high-performing leaders like Obi should continually be expected to play supporting roles, rather than lead.
“Why are we always asking the best to be second?” she added, expressing frustration over what she views as a pattern of sidelining competent individuals in Nigerian politics.
Yesufu, who was a vocal and visible supporter of Peter Obi during the 2023 general elections, made it clear that her position stems not just from political loyalty, but from principle. She argued that Obi’s performance and vision have proven he deserves to lead, not to play second fiddle to anyone.
Her remarks came amid ongoing political discussions and speculations about potential coalitions and alignments ahead of the 2027 elections. At the center of some of these discussions was the possibility—floated in political circles—that Peter Obi might consider being a running mate in a broader coalition to unseat the ruling party.
Obi himself has since addressed such speculations, stating that he has no intention of accepting a vice presidential slot in the upcoming race. His response appeared aimed at calming concerns among his core supporters and reaffirming his commitment to offering a leadership alternative.
Yesufu’s declaration has sparked conversation within Nigeria’s political landscape, highlighting the delicate balance opposition figures must maintain as they position themselves for the next general elections. Her statement also underscored a broader demand among citizens and political observers for accountability, meritocracy, and principled leadership in 2027.
