The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has described Oyo State Governor and Allied Peoples Movement (APM) presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, as qualified to contest for the presidency ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Obi made the declaration on Monday in Abuja during the inauguration of Makinde’s presidential campaign office, where he joined Makinde, Bauchi State Governor and APM National Leader, Bala Mohammed, and other political stakeholders.

Speaking at the event, Obi emphasised the need for a political environment where differences in party affiliation do not prevent leaders from working together in the interest of the country.

He stressed that the 2027 political contest should not be driven by desperation, bitterness or personal attacks, but by ideas, competence and practical solutions to the challenges confronting Nigerians.

According to Obi, Makinde is qualified to seek the presidency, but the ultimate decision should belong to the Nigerian people through a free, fair and credible electoral process. He maintained that whoever emerges victorious should receive the collective support of Nigerians in the effort to build a better country.

Obi also called for a New Nigeria anchored on unity, love, justice, mutual respect and inclusion, urging political contestants to ensure that their shared commitment to the country remains greater than their political differences.

He identified insecurity, poverty, hunger, inequality and the growing number of out-of-school children as some of the critical issues that should dominate political discussions ahead of the election.

Rather than allowing political campaigns to deepen divisions, Obi urged contestants to compete on policies and ideas capable of improving the lives of Nigerians, reducing poverty and restoring hope to citizens.

He further advocated for a political culture in which the welfare of ordinary Nigerians remains at the centre of political competition, stressing the need for leaders to maintain respect, decency and responsibility throughout the electoral process.

Obi congratulated Makinde, Bala Mohammed and the leadership and members of the APM on the commissioning of the campaign office, describing the occasion as an opportunity to reinforce the importance of cooperation and national unity.

His appearance at the event has attracted attention because Obi and Makinde are both seeking the presidency on different political platforms in 2027. However, Obi’s remarks focused largely on political civility, national interest and the need to allow Nigerians to freely determine their preferred leadership.

The development comes as opposition figures and political parties continue consultations and preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections, with calls for greater cooperation and issue-based political engagement gaining prominence.