My support for Obi is for presidency, not VP slot — Utomi

Political economist, Prof. Pat Utomi, has reaffirmed his support for Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi ahead of the 2027 election, saying he would withdraw his backing if Obi accepts a vice-presidential position.

Utomi stated this in a post shared on Friday, stressing that his support for Obi was specifically for the former Anambra State governor to contest the presidency and not serve as another politician’s running mate.

“I have said this before, and I believe it is important to remind Nigerians of my position as we approach 2027. Peter Obi has my support for the presidency,” Utomi said.

He added that his position was based on his views about the kind of leadership Nigeria needs, rather than personal loyalty to any politician.

“The day Peter Obi accepts a vice presidential position, I will walk away from his corner. I have said this plainly, and I stand by it,” he said.

Utomi also renewed his call for a national conversation on the age of people seeking executive offices, arguing that Nigeria should consider limiting presidential and governorship candidates to those aged 70 or below.

He said the country needed leadership focused on the future and meaningful change, rather than another cycle of political succession.

Utomi urged Nigerians to assess his views on their merits, as discussions over possible alliances and political realignments ahead of the 2027 general election continue.