Pof. Pat Utomi, an ardent supporter of former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, now presidential candidate of Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, said he would withdraw his support if Obi accepts to run as vice president in the 2027 election.
The supporter, in a statement on Tuesday, said his backing for Obi for the presidency remains but does not extend to a vice presidential ticket.
“Peter Obi has my support for the presidency. But my position is clear, I am not supporting the idea of Peter Obi becoming somebody else’s Vice President,” the statement said.
“The day Peter Obi accepts a Vice Presidential position, I will walk away from his corner,” it said.
The statement said the position was about leadership direction rather than personalities.
It also called for a national debate on age limits for executive office, saying candidates for president and governor should be 70 years or below.
“The Nigerian presidency should not become a retirement home for politicians,” the statement said. “Nigeria needs leadership that is focused on the future.”
The next presidential election in Nigeria is scheduled for 2027.