Peter Obi’s Supporter Draws Line in the Sand: “Dump Him If He Joins Atiku or Any Alliance Without Him as Flagbearer”

In a dramatic public statement that has set social media ablaze, a passionate supporter of Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has issued an open letter vowing to withdraw his support should Obi enter into any coalition with Atiku Abubakar or any political alliance that does not see Obi as the presidential flag bearer in the upcoming 2027 election. The letter, posted by the user @PureMinD__ on X (formerly Twitter), reflects a growing sentiment among some sections of Obi’s base that the former governor’s political journey must not be compromised by alliances perceived as diluting his leadership ambitions or undermining his unique appeal to Nigerian youths.

The letter starts with a firm warning to Peter Obi: “I am writing to inform you ahead of my decision to withdraw my support if you ever join a coalition with Atiku Abubakar as Vice President or any coalition that will not see you as the presidential candidate.” It immediately sets a tone of unwavering loyalty to Obi’s individual political identity, rather than any broader alliance where Obi might play second fiddle. This declaration resonates with many young Nigerians who view Obi as a fresh, relatable, and competent leader uniquely capable of addressing the country’s challenges.

What makes this open letter particularly compelling is the detailed account of the sacrifices and efforts the supporter claims to have made during the 2023 election cycle. He outlines six key personal contributions that go beyond ordinary political support. These include sponsoring buses to mobilize youth for rallies, printing campaign materials, funding food and drinks at campaign events, spending substantial sums to pacify potential disruptors of the election process, protecting Labour Party agents from violent attacks, and using his own platforms to promote Obi despite tempting offers from rival parties. The supporter also highlights the social risks he took, noting that as a Yoruba man in a predominantly APC-supporting environment, he endured threats simply for publicly backing Obi.

This deep level of commitment underscores the intensity of loyalty Obi commands among his core supporters. The writer’s disappointment is palpable as he expresses disbelief at the mere suggestion that Obi might accept a vice-presidential role, especially alongside Atiku Abubakar, whom he criticizes for “chilling in the UAE since 2023.” This statement reveals a frustration with established politicians perceived as disconnected or out of touch, contrasting sharply with Obi’s image as a hands-on leader actively engaging with Nigerians.

The letter also issues a stark warning about the political future: as the 2027 election approaches, new young voters who were too young to participate in 2023 will become eligible. These voters, the writer insists, will support Obi only if he runs as the presidential candidate. “If you run, we’ll be there. But if you choose to step down for someone else, you’ve lost me and millions of others,” he concludes, making clear that Obi’s political capital is deeply tied to his ability to stand independently and not as a subordinate in any coalition.

The viral nature of the post has sparked a flood of reactions from Nigerians, illustrating the divided opinions within the political landscape. Many commenters have expressed solidarity with the letter’s stance, emphasizing the importance of having Obi as the face of any coalition. One user wrote, “We are more than 30 million behind you, my brother from another mother. Coalition is nice but coalition without Peter Obi as a figurehead is dead on arrival.” Others echoed the desire for unity against hunger and electoral reform but maintained that Obi must remain the central figure.

However, not all responses were supportive. Some critics dismissed the letter’s emotional tone and accused the author and his supporters of being overly tribal or sentimental. One comment bluntly told the writer to “go to hell with your support,” highlighting the often harsh and polarized nature of Nigerian political discourse. Another voice urged caution against letting emotions cloud political strategy, arguing that defeating the current government would require harder, more pragmatic efforts rather than purely emotional loyalty.

Yet others, while agreeing with the spirit of the letter, expressed willingness to back any candidate or coalition that promises to end what they see as “bad governance,” regardless of who leads. This pragmatic approach underscores the complexity of Nigerian politics, where many voters prioritize effective governance over party loyalty or individual personalities.

The controversy surrounding Peter Obi’s potential alliances is a microcosm of broader debates about coalition politics in Nigeria. With multiple parties vying for influence and an electorate hungry for change, alliances can be a double-edged sword. They offer a chance to unify opposition forces but risk alienating core supporters if the perceived leader is sidelined. Obi’s supporters’ insistence on him being the presidential candidate reflects a fear that political compromises might water down the progressive message that attracted millions to his campaign in 2023.

The open letter also highlights the emotional and financial investments made by grassroots supporters, often overlooked in discussions of political strategy. For many, backing a candidate like Obi is not just about politics; it is a personal commitment to a vision of a better Nigeria. The idea of Obi stepping down or accepting a secondary role is seen not only as a political misstep but as a betrayal of that vision.

As the 2027 election draws nearer, the pressure mounts on Peter Obi to clarify his political path. Will he heed the calls from loyal supporters to stand firm as a presidential candidate, or will he seek alliances that may broaden his appeal but risk losing the passionate base that helped propel him to national prominence? The answer will likely shape the future of Nigeria’s political landscape and the hopes of millions who see Obi as a beacon of change.

For now, the viral open letter stands as a powerful reminder of the intense emotions and high stakes involved in Nigerian politics. It captures the hopes, frustrations, and unwavering loyalty of a new generation of voters determined to shape their country’s future — but only on their terms. Peter Obi’s next moves will be closely watched, not just by political insiders, but by the thousands of supporters who have invested their time, money, and hope in his leadership. They are watching, and they are waiting.