The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has warned Peter Obi that his popularity during the 2023 presidential election may not guarantee similar political support in 2027.
The party said the former Labour Party presidential candidate must demonstrate ideological consistency, present clearer policy proposals and build stronger grassroots structures to maintain his political relevance ahead of the next general election.
Lagos APC spokesman Seye Oladejo made the remarks on Monday in a statement titled *“2027: Peter Obi and the Expiration Date of Political Momentum.”
Oladejo acknowledged that Obi’s 2023 campaign attracted significant public attention through youth mobilisation, social media engagement and widespread frustration with the political establishment.
However, he argued that the enthusiasm surrounding the campaign had not automatically translated into a lasting political structure capable of sustaining similar support in future elections.
According to him, public popularity can decline when it is not backed by consistent political positions, credible policies and sustained organisational development.
“Political capital, once accumulated, can depreciate when it is not reinforced by consistency, credible policies and sustained organisational development,” Oladejo said.
The APC spokesman also criticised Obi’s movement across political parties, citing his previous affiliations with the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP), alongside subsequent political realignments ahead of 2027.
Oladejo said changing political parties was not necessarily wrong but argued that repeated movements could raise questions about a politician’s ideological convictions.
He maintained that political platforms should represent enduring principles rather than serve primarily as vehicles for individual presidential ambitions.
The APC chieftain also challenged Obi to provide greater clarity on how he intends to address Nigeria’s economic challenges, including inflation, unemployment, public debt and energy supply.
He argued that presidential leadership requires more than broad promises, stressing the need for candidates to explain the costs, trade-offs and practical steps involved in implementing their policies.
‘Go and verify’ remark comes under scrutiny
Oladejo also questioned Obi’s repeated use of the phrase “go and verify”, arguing that some of the claims associated with the expression had faced scrutiny over their accuracy.
He maintained that verification was important in public discourse but said political leaders should ensure that the figures and assertions they present can withstand independent examination.
The APC spokesman further argued that the Obidient movement, which gained prominence during Obi’s 2023 presidential campaign, would need to move beyond public mobilisation and develop a more structured political organisation.
According to him, sustaining a national political movement requires translating popular enthusiasm into policy development, grassroots engagement and long-term institutional strength.
Oladejo said the 2027 presidential election would require candidates to demonstrate competence, credibility, organisation and a clear vision for Nigeria rather than rely on recreating the emotions that shaped the previous election.
He added that the ruling APC recognised that electoral victories must be earned through performance and public confidence.
However, he argued that no candidate should expect the ruling party to surrender its political advantage simply because of past popularity.
“Momentum is an opportunity, not a permanent political asset,” he said.
The comments add to the political exchanges ahead of the 2027 general election, as parties and presidential aspirants seek to consolidate their support and position themselves for the contest.
Obi’s political strategy, policy proposals and ability to build a lasting national structure are likely to remain subjects of debate as preparations for the election continue.
