The Abuja Times

Segun Sowunmi Identifies Peter Obi and Obidients as Barriers to Igbo Presidency

Segun Sowunmi, the convener of The Alternative, has labeled Peter Obi and his supporters as the primary hurdles to the South-East's ambition for Nigeria's presidency. He emphasizes the need for strategic alliances and reduced political animosity to enhance the region's prospects in the upcoming 2027 elections.

T

The Abuja Times

Sun, 18 Oct 2026• 2 min read
Segun Sowunmi Identifies Peter Obi and Obidients as Barriers to Igbo Presidency
Segun Sowunmi Identifies Peter Obi and Obidients as Barriers to Igbo Presidency — The Abuja Times Newsroom

In a thought-provoking interview on the Selah Meditate Podcast, Segun Sowunmi, a prominent political figure and convener of The Alternative, has raised concerns about the role of Peter Obi and his supporters, collectively known as the Obidients, in the pursuit of the Igbo presidency. Sowunmi asserts that their actions and approach are detrimental to the South-East's chances of securing the highest office in Nigeria, particularly in the context of the upcoming 2027 general elections.

Sowunmi argues that for the South-East to realize its presidential aspirations, it must engage in constructive political alliances beyond its immediate ethnic boundaries. He stated, "The biggest obstacle I see to the Igbo presidency is Peter Obi and his Obidients. Let me tell you why. Power must be negotiated." He stresses that fostering relationships with other regions, including the Middle Belt and northern Nigeria, is essential for creating a united front that can effectively compete for presidential power in a diverse nation.

Highlighting the importance of diplomatic engagement, Sowunmi pointed out that the current atmosphere of hostility and animosity among some supporters of Obi could alienate potential allies. He noted, "You can’t be asking for the presidency in a multi-ethnic, multicultural country when the level of bigotry and hatred and anger is too high." This sentiment underscores the need for a more inclusive and reconciliatory approach to political dialogue in Nigeria.

Critically assessing the political landscape, Sowunmi's comments reflect a broader concern about the implications of divisive politics on the South-East's presidential ambitions. By advocating for solidarity across regional lines, he calls for a strategic reevaluation of how political power is pursued, emphasizing that without cooperation, the prospects for an Igbo presidency may remain bleak.

“The biggest obstacle I see to the Igbo presidency is Peter Obi and his Obidients. Power must be negotiated.” - Segun Sowunmi

Share this article with your network

Broadcast directly to WhatsApp communities and news circles.

Editorial Briefing

The Abuja Morning Dispatch

Get the capital's most important political investigations, cabinet decisions, and economic intelligence delivered to your inbox every morning.

No spam ever. Unsubscribe at any time with one click.

T

About The Abuja Times

Super Admin & Lead Director

Related Dispatches in News

Opposition Parties Strengthen Alliance Ahead of 2027 Elections, Says ADC Chieftain
News
18 Oct•The Abuja Times

Opposition Parties Strengthen Alliance Ahead of 2027 Elections, Says ADC Chieftain

Salihu Lukman, a key figure in the African Democratic Congress, announces significant progress in forming an opposition alliance for the upcoming 2027 general elections. The G100 group is actively engaging various political parties to unify their efforts against the ruling All Progressives Congress.

Atiku Abubakar's Ask AA Platform: Tough Questions but Incomplete Answers
News
18 Oct•The Abuja Times

Atiku Abubakar's Ask AA Platform: Tough Questions but Incomplete Answers

An analysis of the Ask AA platform reveals that while critical inquiries are posed to presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, many responses lack crucial details such as financial figures and specific political commitments. This examination raises concerns about transparency and accountability in the electoral process.