By Dennis Okechukwu
Former Anambra State governor and 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on Monday met with former President Goodluck Jonathan in a closed-door meeting in Abuja as part of ongoing consultations ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
The meeting, which held at Jonathan’s residence in Maitama, lasted about two hours and was attended by prominent Igbo leaders. Among them were former Enugu State governor, Okwesilieze Nwodo; former Imo State governor, Achike Udenwa; former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Onyema Ugochukwu; and Senators Ben Obi and Victor Umeh.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Obi described the visit as part of a broader consultation process with former national leaders as he prepares for his 2027 presidential ambition. He noted that discussions with Jonathan were focused on exchanging views on the country’s political direction rather than seeking immediate endorsement.
According to Obi, engaging with past leaders remains critical, particularly those with democratic credentials and governance experience. He praised Jonathan’s leadership, describing him as someone who served the country with focus and commitment to democratic principles.
“In this declining situation, you consult someone like him who has served the country faithfully and understands what is expected in a democracy,” Obi said.
He added that the former president expressed his desire for Nigeria to conduct free, fair, and credible elections, while also opposing any move toward a one-party system.
Obi, who is seeking the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), clarified that the meeting did not involve any endorsement discussions.
“We are not talking about endorsement yet. When I become a candidate, I will return for that. For now, we are here to consult, and he wishes the country well,” he said.
The latest meeting follows Obi’s earlier consultations with former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former military leader Ibrahim Babangida, as he intensifies engagements with key political stakeholders ahead of 2027.
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