Former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, has emerged as the sole presidential aspirant of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The development follows the closure of the party’s sale of Expression of Interest and Nomination forms, with no other contender stepping forward to join the presidential race under the NDC platform.

Party officials confirmed that Obi is currently the only aspirant for the top ticket, placing him in a strong position to secure the party’s nomination, subject to the completion of internal processes.

In a statement issued by the NDC National Secretary, Ikenna Morgan Enekweizu, the party disclosed that while deadlines for governorship and legislative aspirants have been extended, the presidential timetable remains unchanged.

Screening of aspirants is scheduled to take place between May 19 and May 26. Obi’s emergence comes amid growing political realignments as opposition parties intensify preparations for the 2027 elections.

The former Labour Party presidential candidate is reported to have aligned with the NDC following earlier coalition talks involving key political actors across party lines.

Analysts say the move could significantly reshape the opposition landscape as parties strategise to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The NDC had earlier announced that its presidential ticket for 2027 would be zoned to Southern Nigeria for a single four-year term, a decision widely interpreted as favourable to Obi’s candidacy.

Despite being the sole aspirant, Obi is expected to undergo the party’s screening process and must meet all constitutional and electoral requirements before being formally declared the party’s presidential candidate.