Kayode Ogundamisi says Peter Obi remains the strongest challenger to President Tinubu’s 2027 ambition.
He urges opposition unity, warning Tinubu’s new alliance could dominate without serious electoral resistance.
Nigerian political commentator and media personality, Kayode Ogundamisi, has sparked intense political discourse following his viral statement on social media, where he named former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, as the only viable opposition figure capable of challenging President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.
Despite clarifying that he is not affiliated with any political alliance or a supporter of Obi, Ogundamisi emphasized that the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate remains the most potent electoral threat to Tinubu’s hold on power, citing his growing popularity and strategic appeal across the southern region of Nigeria.
In the strongly-worded post, Ogundamisi noted, “Even Lagos isn’t safe for Bola with Obi as the consensus candidate. His camp mocks him publicly, but they fear him privately.” The remark highlights Obi’s rising influence, even in strongholds traditionally considered loyal to Tinubu, such as Lagos State.
Ogundamisi urged the various opposition forces in the country to unite and consolidate their efforts around Obi, whom he described as a unique political figure with an unconventional style and deep grassroots connection, particularly in the southern regions. According to him, Obi’s authenticity, direct engagement with the masses, and perceived detachment from the entrenched political elite make him the only candidate capable of disrupting what he termed Tinubu’s “state power + mafia-style politics.”
He further stressed that time is of the essence for the opposition if they intend to mount a serious and strategic challenge ahead of the next general election. “Tinubu has built a new alliance, different from the one that brought him in… Your only shot is Peter Obi. Use him or lose again,” Ogundamisi warned, suggesting that the president is already reshaping his political base and strengthening his grip on federal and state institutions in anticipation of 2027.
The political analyst also floated a bold suggestion, urging smaller parties such as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to consider adopting Obi as their presidential flagbearer, if the Labour Party or other major opposition blocs prove incapable of forming a united front. According to Ogundamisi, such a strategic move would demonstrate serious intent and signal to the electorate that the opposition is ready to challenge the dominance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The statement has since generated a flurry of reactions online, with many political observers interpreting it as a call to action for opposition leaders to set aside differences and focus on a common goal. Supporters of Obi, who believe the 2023 election was marred by irregularities, have welcomed the remarks, while critics loyal to the ruling party have dismissed them as speculative and unfounded.
