Political activist and convener of Concerned Nigerians, Deji Adeyanju, has sparked controversy following his recent claim that former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, is positioning himself to work with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Adeyanju, known for his outspoken commentary on national issues, made the assertion via his social media platforms, where he accused Obi of prioritizing business and political survival over ideology and opposition. According to Adeyanju, Obi’s recent political behavior suggests a willingness to realign with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a move he described as “self-serving and transactional.”
“Once A Businessman, Always A Businessman” – Adeyanju
In his strongly worded statement, Adeyanju stated, “Once a businessman, always a businessman. Peter Obi is already making moves to work with Tinubu in 2027. For him, politics has never been about ideology. It is a marketplace, a transaction where alliances shift based on personal interest.”
The activist pointed to what he called “soft political moves” by Obi in recent months, which include what he described as Obi’s “calculated silence” on critical national issues and his non-confrontational stance toward the presidency.
Adeyanju also suggested that the Labour Party’s relatively passive role in opposing the current administration may be part of a larger strategy to secure political relevance within the ruling party’s sphere of influence ahead of the next general elections.
Obi’s 2023 Campaign and His Position in Nigerian Politics
Peter Obi ran for president in the 2023 general election under the Labour Party banner, gaining significant support from young Nigerians, civil society groups, and urban voters disenchanted with the status quo represented by the APC and PDP. His campaign was characterized by calls for transparency, good governance, and economic reform.
Although he did not win the election, Obi emerged as a formidable political force, finishing third behind Tinubu and Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). His performance was seen as a watershed moment in Nigeria’s political history, as it broke the traditional two-party dominance and gave rise to what many dubbed the “Obidient Movement.”
However, Adeyanju argues that Obi’s political principles may not be as unwavering as many of his supporters believe. He insists that Obi’s political history shows a pattern of strategic alliances and opportunistic shifts, pointing to his past affiliations with the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), the PDP, and later, the Labour Party.
“Obi is not new to switching political platforms. What we are seeing now is just a continuation of that same pragmatic, but selfish political play,” Adeyanju said.
Reactions from the Public and Political Circles
Adeyanju’s comments have triggered mixed reactions across political and social media platforms. While some Nigerians see his claims as unfounded and provocative, others believe the warning signals are worth monitoring as the political landscape continues to shift ahead of 2027.
Supporters of Peter Obi have dismissed Adeyanju’s remarks as a smear campaign aimed at tarnishing the image of a politician who has gained widespread credibility for his focus on governance and economic development. Many within the Labour Party and the broader “Obidient” movement have reiterated their loyalty to Obi, insisting that he remains committed to his ideals.
A member of Obi’s media team, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described Adeyanju’s statements as “baseless distractions.” He said, “Peter Obi is focused on building a new Nigeria and addressing the many issues plaguing the country. Any suggestion that he is planning to work with the same forces he campaigned against is pure fiction.”
Tinubu’s 2027 Ambitions and the Shifting Political Landscape
Although President Bola Tinubu is still in his first term, political discussions about 2027 have already begun in earnest. Analysts say the fierce competition between the APC, PDP, and Labour Party in the 2023 election has laid the groundwork for even more complex alignments in the next cycle.
Some observers argue that if Tinubu seeks reelection, he may explore new alliances to broaden his support base, especially among young and urban voters who largely supported Peter Obi. In that context, a political understanding between Tinubu and Obi, though speculative, cannot be completely ruled out.
However, critics argue that such a partnership would be politically risky for both men. For Obi, aligning with Tinubu could alienate his base, who see him as a symbol of change and an alternative to the APC-PDP power structure. For Tinubu, embracing Obi could trigger resistance within the APC, particularly from long-time loyalists and political godfathers.
Adeyanju Urges Nigerians to Remain Vigilant
In his closing remarks, Deji Adeyanju urged Nigerians not to be carried away by political branding or emotional attachments to political figures. He advised the electorate to scrutinize the actions of all political leaders, regardless of their past statements or promises.
“Nigerians must open their eyes. Don’t be fooled by sweet speeches or populist rhetoric. We’ve seen how these politicians operate. They switch sides when it suits them and leave the people behind. Watch their actions, not just their words,” he warned.
As the country inches closer to another election cycle, Adeyanju’s warning adds a new layer of complexity to the evolving political discourse in Nigeria. Whether Peter Obi is indeed planning to collaborate with Tinubu remains uncertain, but the speculation has once again highlighted the fluid nature of Nigerian politics, where allegiances often shift in pursuit of power.
